Reconfigurable Automobile Input Controllers for Driver Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern automobiles face cluttered and awkwardly positioned input controllers on the steering wheel, which can limit driver comfort and accessibility, especially for drivers with hand dominance preferences or physical limitations, and pose challenges when driving in countries with different directional standards.
Innovation Solution
A configurable input control system with a processor, memory, and controllers that can reconfigure the layout or function of input controllers, allowing them to be relocated or reassigned to different locations or functions, improving accessibility and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple input controllers are provided to control various automobile functions, then the driver can access more features and functions, but the steering wheel becomes cluttered and controllers are placed in awkward positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a reconfigurable controller system where the layout and functions of input controllers can be dynamically changed based on driver preferences and driving conditions. The system allows controllers to be relocated to different positions on the steering wheel or steering column, and their functions can be reassigned, transforming the static controller arrangement into a dynamic, adaptable interface that optimizes both accessibility and comfort
2Ease of manufacture
If input controllers are placed at static locations on one side of the steering wheel, then the layout is simple and manufacturing is easier, but drivers with hand dominance preferences or physical limitations experience difficulty accessing features
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal controller system that can serve multiple driver needs and preferences through a single reconfigurable platform. The system allows controllers to be reassigned to different functions and relocated to various positions, enabling one controller set to adapt to left-handed drivers, right-handed drivers, drivers with physical limitations, and different driving conditions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized controller configurations
3Reliability
If the automobile is configured for a specific directional driving standard, then the vehicle complies with national standards, but drivers accustomed to different drive side configurations experience difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a reconfigurable controller system where the layout and functions of input controllers can be dynamically changed based on driver preferences and driving conditions. The system allows controllers to be relocated to different positions on the steering wheel or steering column, and their functions can be reassigned, transforming the static controller arrangement into a dynamic, adaptable interface that optimizes both accessibility and comfort
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatuses may provide for technology to configure input control systems for an automobile. The technology may include one or more controllers to provide an input control signal for a function of an automobile, wherein each of the one or more controllers are to be situated at different locations that are accessible by a driver. The technology may also include a human machine interface to reconfigure a layout or function of at least one of the one or more controllers so that at least one of the one or more controllers is relocated to a different location or the at least one of the one or more controllers controls a different automobile function. Reconfiguring the location or function of the one or more controllers is to improve driver access, comfort and safety.