Retractable Driver Controls for Seamless Autonomous Cabin Mode
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing passenger vehicles lack a seamless integration of manual and autonomous driving modes, where driver input devices are not only functional but also aesthetically integrated to minimize user distraction and enhance the passenger experience during autonomous operation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a passenger vehicle with a manual control system and an autonomous control system, where driver input devices such as steering, acceleration, and braking inputs are reconfigurable to be hidden or disguised within the vehicle's interior when in autonomous mode, allowing for a clutter-free and distraction-free environment for passengers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If driver input devices are made retractable and hidden during autonomous operation, then passenger experience is improved and visual distraction is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The input devices are designed to dynamically change their configuration based on the driving mode. During autonomous operation, the steering input device rotates to a first configuration where the steering wheel is positioned away from the driver, and the accelerator/decelerator pedals are rotated to a first configuration where they are inaccessible. During manual operation, they rotate to a second configuration where they are accessible. This dynamic reconfiguration resolves the contradiction by automatically adapting the device state to the operational context.
Solution Approach 2:
The input device assembly serves multiple functions: it provides manual steering and acceleration control when needed, and transforms into a decorative or neutral element during autonomous operation. The same physical structure performs both the function of a traditional steering wheel/pedal assembly and the function of a cosmetic panel that enhances passenger experience during autonomous mode, thereby resolving the contradiction between operational functionality and aesthetic integration.
2Shape
If manual control devices are completely hidden during autonomous mode, then aesthetic integration is improved, but manual control accessibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the visibility and accessibility of manual control devices based on the detected driving mode. When autonomous mode is active, the devices are positioned in a first configuration that provides aesthetic integration with the vehicle interior. When manual mode is required, the devices automatically rotate to a second configuration that provides full accessibility. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction by making the device state contingent on operational requirements rather than fixed.
Data Source
AI summary
A manual control system includes input devices to receive user inputs to control the system according to the user inputs when operated in a manual mode. The user input devices are movable between a first configuration to receive the user input by being physically manipulated by the user, and a second configuration in which the user input is not receivable.