Haptic Communication via Interactive Textile Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication systems between vehicle occupants and vehicles rely on visual and auditory cues, which may be distracting or inadequate, especially in autonomous driving scenarios where direct driver input is less frequent.
Innovation Solution
A haptic-communication system integrated into vehicle seats and steering interfaces, using sensors and actuators to provide tactile feedback, allowing for bidirectional communication through mechanical work on interactive textiles, enabling vehicle control and alerting occupants to critical conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If visual and auditory cues are used for vehicle-occupant communication, then information can be conveyed to the driver, but the driver may experience distraction and the communication may be inadequate in autonomous driving scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments communication channels by modality, introducing haptic feedback as a separate channel from visual and auditory cues. This allows information to be distributed across multiple sensory modalities, reducing the burden on any single channel and thereby reducing distraction while improving overall communication effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces haptic elements as an intermediary medium between the vehicle system and the driver. These elements provide tactile feedback that conveys information without requiring the driver's visual or auditory attention, thus reducing distraction while maintaining effective communication.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional dashboard displays and audio signals are used for vehicle communication, then information can be conveyed, but the communication may be inadequate when direct driver input is less frequent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the communication system universal by enabling it to operate effectively across different driving modes (manual and autonomous). The haptic communication system provides a modality that works independently of visual and auditory channels, ensuring adequate communication adaptability whether the driver is actively controlling the vehicle or in autonomous mode with reduced direct input.
3Reliability
If visual displays and auditory signals are used for vehicle-occupant communication, then information can be conveyed, but these methods may be distracting and inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by using haptic feedback selectively for specific types of communication rather than relying on full visual or auditory channels. This partial engagement of the driver's attention through tactile sensation improves communication reliability while minimizing distraction, as haptic cues can convey essential information without requiring sustained driver focus.
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 usability by providing subtle yet effective communication, allowing occupants to interact with vehicles through tactile means, reducing visual and auditory distractions and enabling intuitive control of vehicle operations, especially in autonomous driving.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor is a pressure sensor, those in which it is a piezoelectric sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A haptic-communication system includes a fabric, a frame that supports the fabric, and a haptic element that is integral with a textile that forms the fabric. A transition of the haptic element between first and second states thereof provides communication with a person in contact with the haptic element.