Retractable In-Vehicle Button Control With Shape-Memory Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing number of buttons in vehicles due to multiple functions complicates user operation, leads to potential incorrect operation, damages shape-memory alloy switches from irregular power supply, and causes irregular operation due to temperature changes.
Innovation Solution
An in-vehicle operating device with an actuator using shape-memory members that appear and disappear based on controlled current supply, maintaining voltage within a preset range and adjusting current based on conditions to prevent damage and ensure consistent operation, and incorporates a sensor for user input and temperature compensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of buttons is increased to provide multiple functions, then the functionality of the vehicle is improved, but the complexity of operation and interior design deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The button is implemented as a movable operation module that can dynamically change its position between a first position (protruding from the panel) and a second position (recessed into the panel). This dynamic positioning allows the button to appear or disappear based on operational needs, providing multiple functions while maintaining a clean, simple interior design when not in use.
2Speed
If shape-memory alloy is used to operate the switch, then the actuation speed is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to damage from high voltage
Solution Approach 1:
A controller is introduced as an intermediary device that supplies current to the shape-memory alloy actuator while maintaining the voltage within a preset range. This controller prevents high voltage damage to the shape-memory alloy, ensuring reliable operation while maintaining the fast actuation speed provided by the shape-memory material.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically adjusts the current parameters supplied to the shape-memory alloy based on its operational state and temperature conditions. By monitoring and adjusting current parameters in real-time, the system prevents overheating and voltage damage while maintaining effective actuation.
3Speed
If shape-memory alloy is used for the switch, then the response time is improved, but the operational consistency deteriorates due to irregular operation
Solution Approach 1:
The controller implements feedback control by monitoring the operational state of the shape-memory alloy actuator and adjusting the current supply accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that the actuator operates consistently within safe parameters, preventing irregular operation while maintaining the fast response time characteristic of shape-memory materials.
4Ease of operation
If the button is always visible, then the ease of operation is improved, but the aesthetic design deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The operation module dynamically changes its position between protruding from and recessed into the panel surface. When the button needs to be operated, it protrudes for easy visibility and access. When not in use, it recesses into the panel to maintain a clean, aesthetic interior design, thus resolving the contradiction between accessibility and aesthetics.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Improves user interface by simplifying button visibility, reduces manufacturing costs, prevents shape-memory alloy damage, and ensures consistent operation across varying temperatures, reducing the risk of accidental button activation.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator including a plurality of shape-memory members contracting by applying current when heated
Implementation Method 2
contracting by applying current when heated
Implementation Method 3
restored to an original state thereof when cooled
Data Source
AI summary
An in-vehicle operating device is provided. The in-vehicle operating device includes a panel constituting a vehicle interior component and having an opening, an operation module provided to be movable in a backward-forward direction through the opening between a first position and a second position spaced apart from each other, with a button operated by a user being disposed on a front end thereof, an actuator including a plurality of shape-memory members contracting by applying current when heated and restored to an original state thereof when cooled, the plurality of shape-memory members including at least one first shape-memory member configured to move the operation module to the first position using a force generated during contraction and at least one second shape-memory member configured to move the operation module to the second position using a force generated during contraction, and a controller configured to supply current to the actuator while maintaining a voltage provided from a vehicle battery within a preset voltage range, and control an amount of current for each of the plurality of shape-memory members included in the actuator according to a condition for operating each of the plurality of shape-memory members.