Reconfigurable Vehicle Model for Human Motion Simulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current vehicle models lack the ability to efficiently simulate various vehicle configurations and human motion data collection for studies on ingress and egress, roominess, vision, and reachability, limiting the accuracy and versatility of human motion research.

Innovation Solution

A reconfigurable vehicle model with modular components, a frame defining a 3D coordinate system, and an integrated camera system, controlled by a computer system to capture and analyze occupant motion, allowing for adjustable positions and interference checking to simulate different vehicle configurations and collect human motion data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If vehicle models are fixed in design, then manufacturing and operation are simple, but adaptability to different vehicle packages and research studies is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different vehicle packagesVSAvoidmodel complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The vehicle model is divided into multiple interchangeable modules including a main module with seat assembly, instrument panel assembly, steering wheel assembly, and secondary modules such as door assemblies and pillar assemblies. Each module can be independently configured and repositioned along tracks to simulate different vehicle packages, enabling adaptability without requiring complete model redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The vehicle model incorporates dynamically adjustable components that can be repositioned during operation. Modules can be moved along tracks, seats can be adjusted to different positions, and components can be reconfigured to match various vehicle packages, allowing the model to adapt to different research requirements while maintaining a consistent base structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If manual adjustment of vehicle components is used, then device complexity is low, but productivity and data collection efficiency are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata collection efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates sensors and detectors that automatically track the positions of modules and components, providing real-time feedback to the control system. This feedback mechanism enables automated adjustment and configuration of the vehicle model according to predetermined parameters, significantly improving data collection efficiency while reducing manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical adjustment of vehicle components is replaced with an automated control system that uses electronic signals to position modules and components. The control system coordinates the movement and configuration of various assemblies based on stored vehicle package data, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration and enhancing productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Measurement precision

If comprehensive motion capture is implemented, then measurement precision of human motion is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehuman motion data accuracyVSAvoidcamera system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple camera systems are integrated and synchronized to work as a unified motion capture network. The cameras are coordinated to simultaneously track multiple reference points on the vehicle model and occupant bodies, capturing comprehensive motion data from various angles. This merged system achieves high measurement precision while sharing common control and processing infrastructure to manage complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS9932079B2Reconfigurable vehicle model
Publication Date: 2018.04.03 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
  • US9932079B2 patent drawing
  • US9932079B2 patent drawing
  • US9932079B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle model including main and secondary modules is provided. The vehicle module may also include vehicle components, a frame, a camera system, and a controller. The vehicle components are operably connected to the modules. The frame supports the modules and components and defines a 3D coordinate system including identifiable reference points. The camera system is arranged with the frame to capture activity within the 3D coordinate system. The controller is in communication with, and configured to direct operation of, the modules, components, and camera system based on the identifiable reference points and accessible vehicle CAD data. The vehicle components may comprise a subject platform located adjacent to, detached from, and integrated to function with the modules. The subject platform may be configured to vertically adjust between a plurality of positions for simulating ground outside a vehicle.