Hinged Cover Joystick for Autonomous Vehicle Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current autonomous vehicle control systems lack an intuitive and safe method for occupants to easily switch between autonomous and manual modes, potentially leading to accidental mode changes and inefficient cabin layouts.
Innovation Solution
A joystick-based control system with a hingedly coupled cover that programmatically switches between autonomous and manual modes, hiding unnecessary inputs in autonomous mode and exposing them in manual mode, allowing for easy switching while minimizing accidental transitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a joystick control system is used in autonomous vehicles, then ease of operation is improved, but the risk of accidental mode changes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two distinct operational modes (autonomous and manual) that are physically separated by a cover. The cover divides the joystick into two functional zones: the top portion accessible only when the cover is open (manual mode), and the bottom portion always accessible (autonomous mode). This segmentation prevents accidental mode changes by requiring a deliberate action (opening the cover) to switch modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover acts as an intermediary element between the autonomous and manual control modes. It physically blocks access to the upper inputs (throttle, brake, steering) when closed, serving as a mediator that prevents unintended activation of manual controls while allowing easy transition to manual mode when intentionally opened.
2Ease of operation
If all controls are always exposed, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed to be dynamically movable between open and closed positions, allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on the operational mode. This dynamic element enables the controls to be exposed or concealed as needed, providing ease of operation when required while maintaining a simplified appearance when the cover is closed, thus avoiding permanent structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system includes a joystick and a computer. The joystick includes a joystick body, a cover hingedly coupled to the joystick body and movable between an open position and a closed position, and an input located on the joystick body. The input is exposed by the cover when the cover is in the open position and concealed by the cover when the cover is in the closed position. The computer is programmed to enter a first mode in response to the cover moving from the open position to the closed position, to enter a second mode in response to both the cover moving from the closed position to the open position and the input being activated, and to remain in a same of the first and second modes in response to the cover moving from the closed position to the open position without the input being activated.