Remote Vehicle Power Generation HMI with Segmented Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Controlling a vehicle's Power Generation mode is inconvenient due to the need to access an interface located inside the passenger cabin, which may not be easily accessible for users needing to control or power external equipment.
Innovation Solution
A human machine interface (HMI) is mounted remotely from the passenger cabin, featuring an electronic display and power outlets, allowing users to control the vehicle in Power Generation mode and supply power to non-vehicle equipment, with options for mounting in locations like truck beds or trunks, and including authentication and locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the HMI is located inside the passenger cabin, then the control interface is protected and integrated with the vehicle's main systems, but the accessibility and convenience for users powering external equipment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The HMI system is segmented into two separate interfaces: a primary HMI inside the passenger cabin for vehicle control, and a secondary portable HMI for power generation control. This segmentation allows each interface to be optimized for its specific function and location, resolving the contradiction between protection/integration and accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The power generation control functionality is extracted from the main vehicle HMI and implemented as a separate portable HMI that can be positioned outside the passenger cabin. This extraction enables users to control power generation at the point of use while the main vehicle systems remain protected inside the cabin.
2Loss of time
If the HMI is mounted remotely from the passenger cabin, then the accessibility and convenience for users deteriorates, but the setup time and usability for powering external equipment improves
Solution Approach 1:
The portable HMI is pre-configured with all necessary controls and displays for power generation mode before the user needs to use it. This preliminary preparation eliminates setup time when power generation is needed, as the interface is ready to use immediately upon removal from the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable HMI acts as an intermediary device between the user and the vehicle's power generation system. It provides a simplified, dedicated interface for power generation controls while maintaining communication with the main vehicle systems, thus improving usability without compromising system integration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the HMI includes multiple power outlets with different configurations, then the versatility for powering various external equipment improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The portable HMI is equipped with multiple power outlets of different configurations (e.g., different plug types, voltage outputs) to provide universal compatibility with various external equipment. This multi-functionality allows a single device to serve multiple purposes and accommodate different equipment requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Different power outlets on the HMI are configured with specific local qualities suited for different equipment types. For example, certain outlets may provide higher power for heavy equipment while others provide lower power for small devices, with each outlet optimized for its intended use rather than all outlets being identical.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a passenger cabin and a human machine interface (HMI) located remote from the passenger cabin. The HMI includes an electronic display and at least one power outlet adapted to selectively supply power to non-vehicle equipment. The HMI may be accessed to control the vehicle in a Power Generation mode.