Haptic Steering Wheel Switch with Rotary Knob and Tactile Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switch devices for vehicles and other applications suffer from inconvenient operation due to the need for users to simultaneously monitor both the switch knob and a separate display screen, leading to distracted driving and weak responsiveness, particularly in touch switch structures.
Innovation Solution
A haptic steering wheel switch apparatus with a compact, two-axis electric motor-driven haptic wheel device that integrates a haptic knob and sensing unit on a vehicle steering wheel, allowing for smooth rotary and push operations without diverting the driver's attention, featuring a light-transmitting haptic knob and button switch units for enhanced feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a conventional switch device with separate display screen is used, then the display function is provided, but the user must simultaneously watch the switch knob and display screen which diverts driving attention and decreases driving safety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the display function and switch function into a single integrated switch knob assembly. The display unit is positioned within the switch knob structure, allowing the driver to access both display information and control functions through one component rather than separately monitoring a display screen and switch knob, thereby eliminating the need to divert attention from the road.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch knob is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the control interface for menu navigation and button pressing, and as the display unit for showing menu information and vehicle status. This multi-functional design consolidates what were previously separate components into one universal interface that the driver can operate and monitor simultaneously.
2Device complexity
If an electrostatic capacity type touch switch structure is used, then the display device and switch device are integrated, but the responsiveness is weak and users do not feel a direct manipulation feeling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a haptic actuator that provides dynamic tactile feedback to the switch knob during manipulation. This creates variable resistance and vibration effects that give the driver direct sensory feedback about their input actions, transforming the static touch interface into a dynamic interaction that responds to the driver's manipulations in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The haptic actuator generates mechanical vibrations and tactile sensations when the driver presses or rotates the switch knob. These vibrations provide a direct physical feedback loop that enhances the driver's perception of their manipulation actions, making the interface feel more responsive and tangible compared to passive capacitive touch switches.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional switch device with hierarchical operation is used, then the function for selecting combined hierarchical operation is provided, but the structure becomes complex and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch knob is designed as a universal control interface that can perform multiple operations: rotation for menu navigation, pressing for selection, and combination of both for hierarchical function access. This single multi-functional component replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate controls, achieving versatile hierarchical operation while maintaining a simple unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the control functions into distinct operational modes (rotation mode for navigation, pressing mode for selection) that are executed by a single integrated switch knob. This segmentation of functions within a unified structure allows complex hierarchical operations to be achieved through simple, intuitive gestures rather than requiring a complex mechanical structure.
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 enables intuitive, safe, and efficient operation by providing tactile feedback and visual cues through light output, reducing manufacturing costs and improving driver attention while maintaining a compact design.
Implementation Method 1
a haptic wheel device actuator that generates a haptic sensation when a haptic knob is rotated or pressed
Implementation Method 2
a light source unit that outputs light in response to operation of the haptic knob
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a haptic steering wheel switch apparatus including: a haptic wheel housing unit configured to be disposed on a vehicle steering wheel; a circuit board unit configured to be disposed inside the haptic wheel housing unit; and a haptic wheel device including a haptic wheel device actuator configured to establish an electrical connection with the circuit board unit and including a haptic shaft, a haptic knob connected with the haptic shaft and exposedly disposed in the haptic wheel housing unit, and a haptic wheel device sensing unit configured to detect the rotating state of the haptic shaft, wherein the haptic wheel device is disposed on a front or rear side of the vehicle steering wheel, and a haptic steering wheel switch system including the same.