Self-Powered Steering Wheel Cover for Cold Comfort
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heated steering wheel solutions require a wired connection to an external power source, limiting convenience and independence from the vehicle's heating system in cold environments.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained steering wheel cover with integrated heating elements, batteries, and a charge port that allows for wireless charging, enabling the steering wheel to be heated independently and providing comfort in cold conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a wired connection to an external power source is used, then the heating function can be provided, but the convenience and independence from the vehicle's heating system are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power source function from the external vehicle electrical system and places it within the steering wheel cover itself through integrated rechargeable batteries. This allows the heating function to operate independently without requiring a wired connection to the vehicle's power system, thereby improving convenience while maintaining controlled device complexity through self-contained power management.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the vehicle's heating system is relied upon, then power is available, but independence and portability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The steering wheel cover is designed to be self-sufficient by integrating rechargeable batteries that can be charged independently of the vehicle's electrical system. The cover can be charged while removed from the steering wheel, allowing it to store energy and operate autonomously. This self-service capability provides independence from the vehicle's heating system while managing energy usage through portable battery power.
3Ease of operation
If heating elements are integrated into the steering wheel cover, then portable warmth is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated unit: the heating elements, batteries, charge port, and control circuitry are all combined within the steering wheel cover. This consolidation provides portable warmth with all necessary components contained in one device, making it easy to operate while managing complexity through integration rather than separate components requiring coordination.
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 provides enhanced user comfort by warming the steering wheel without relying on the vehicle's heating system, offering portable and convenient warmth during cold drives.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of heating elements is each integrated into the steering wheel cover. Each of the heating elements is in thermal communication with the steering wheel cover for heating the steering wheel cover when the plurality of heating elements is turned on.
Data Source
AI summary
A heated steering wheel cover assembly for warming a steering wheel in a cold environment includes a steering wheel cover that is positionable over a steering wheel of a vehicle. A plurality of heating elements is each integrated into the steering wheel cover. Each of the heating elements is in thermal communication with the steering wheel cover for heating the steering wheel cover when the plurality of heating elements is turned on. In this way the plurality of heating elements enhance comfort for a user in a cold environment. Additionally, each of the heating elements is aligned with a respective quadrant of the steering wheel.