Haptic Feedback via Steering Wheel for Contactless Command Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing human-machine interfaces for motor vehicles face challenges in providing reliable and safe feedback to users about the recognition of contactless commands, as visual and auditory feedback methods can be distracting and inadequate in noisy environments.
Innovation Solution
A human-machine interface that includes a control device for detecting contactless commands and a haptic feedback device, which uses an equipment item like the steering wheel or armrest to provide tactile feedback, allowing users to perceive recognition without diverting their gaze from the road and regardless of ambient noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If visual feedback systems are used to indicate command recognition, then the user can see whether the command has been recognized, but the user must divert the eyes from the road which is dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual feedback (optical system) with haptic feedback (mechanical/tactile system). The control device generates haptic signals that are transmitted through the steering wheel or seat to the user's body, allowing command recognition feedback without visual attention, thus resolving the contradiction between information delivery and safety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the steering wheel or seat as an intermediary medium to transmit haptic feedback signals to the user. This intermediary allows the feedback to be delivered through the user's body contact points without requiring visual diversion from the road
2Object-affected harmful factors
If auditory feedback systems are used to confirm command recognition, then the user can remain focused on the road, but the feedback can be inadequate depending on ambient noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces auditory feedback (acoustic system) with haptic feedback (mechanical/tactile system). The haptic signals are transmitted through solid contact points (steering wheel, seat) that are not affected by ambient noise, ensuring reliable feedback delivery while maintaining user focus on the road
3Ease of operation
If contactless commands are used to control vehicle functions, then the user can control equipment without physical contact, but it is difficult for the user to know whether the function has been correctly recognized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a haptic feedback mechanism where the control device provides tactile signals through the steering wheel or seat to confirm command recognition. This feedback loop allows the user to know whether the contactless command has been correctly recognized without requiring visual or auditory attention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the steering wheel or seat as an intermediary to transmit haptic feedback signals to the user's body, providing command recognition confirmation through tactile sensation rather than visual or auditory channels
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 users to receive reliable and safe feedback on command recognition, enhancing safety by providing a perceptible haptic signal that is not affected by noise levels and does not require visual attention.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor comprises an infrared system
Implementation Method 2
the sensor comprises an infrared system and/or a capacitive system
Implementation Method 3
the feedback device comprises a vibrating device configured to communicate one or more vibrations to the equipment item
Data Source
AI summary
A human-machine interface for a motor vehicle, comprising: —a command device (1) comprising at least one sensor configured to detect a command without contact by the user, and —a haptic feedback device (2) to control the consideration of said command, characterized in that —the haptic feedback device engages with a component (3) in the motor vehicle passenger compartment, said component being distinct from the command device, —said component being intended to come into contact with a part of in the body (5) of the user in order to perceive the haptic feedback signal.