Movable Driver Station Module for Autonomous Vehicle Ergonomics

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Solution Overview

Problem

In autonomous vehicles, the existing steering wheel configurations do not optimize space utilization when transitioning between manual and automatic driving modes, leading to suboptimal ergonomic positioning for both the steering wheel and electronic communication interfaces.

Innovation Solution

A driver station with a module that includes a central part, a steering wheel, and an electronic communication interface, allowing the module to be moved between two ergonomic positions via rotation, ensuring the steering wheel is accessible in manual mode and the interface is accessible in automatic mode, optimizing space and ergonomics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If the steering wheel is retracted into a retracted position to free space in front of the driver, then space is freed in the automatic driving configuration, but the computer is positioned too far forward relative to ergonomic position

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespace in front of driverVSAvoidergonomic position of computer

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The module containing the steering wheel and electronic communication interface element is made movable relative to the support structure, allowing it to switch between a first position (manual driving) and a second position (automatic driving). This dynamic reconfiguration enables the system to adapt to different driving modes, resolving the contradiction by providing both space optimization and ergonomic positioning through position switching rather than fixed retraction

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The module serves multiple functions: it contains both the steering wheel and electronic communication interface element, and can be positioned to serve either manual or automatic driving modes. This multi-functionality allows a single movable module to replace what would otherwise require separate fixed components, achieving both space utilization and ergonomic requirements across different operating modes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the steering wheel is made configurable to be accessible in manual mode and free space in automatic mode, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfigurability of steering wheelVSAvoidcomplexity of module positioning system

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The steering wheel and electronic communication interface element are merged into a single movable module that can be repositioned as a unified unit. This combination simplifies the overall system architecture compared to having separate adjustable components, as the entire interface assembly moves together between predefined positions, reducing the complexity of individual adjustment mechanisms while maintaining high adaptability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10814901B2Driver station with module comprising an electronic communication interface element and associated vehicle

Publication Date: 2020.10.27 FAURECIA INTERIEUR IND

AI summary

A driver station of a vehicle including a support structure and a module that has a central part, a steering wheel and an electronic communication interface element. The central part is connected to the support structure. The steering wheel and the electronic communication interface element are arranged on either side of the central part along a main direction. The module is able to be moved relative to the support structure between a first position, in which the steering wheel is provided to be across from a driver, and a second position, in which the electronic communication interface element is provided to be across from the driver.