Electromechanical Rotatable Knob With Virtual-Center Tactile Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional mechanical knobs in automotive trailer reverse assistance systems provide limited tactile feedback, making it difficult for users to discern the relative position of the trailer, and require resetting to an original position after use.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable electromechanical knob with customizable resistive torque, featuring an electronic processor that determines the current trailer angle and adjusts rotational torque based on a virtual center position, providing adjustable tactile feedback through continuous rotation without mechanical detents or end stops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional mechanical knobs are used, then the device structure is simple, but the tactile feedback is limited and cannot convey trailer position information effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical detents and end stops with an electromagnetic braking system. The electromagnetic brake applies variable resistive torque to simulate tactile feedback, eliminating the need for complex mechanical structures while providing adjustable tactile information about trailer position relative to the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes the resistive torque parameter of the knob based on the trailer's angular position. By varying the electromagnetic braking force according to the trailer's deviation from the desired path, the system provides adaptive tactile feedback that guides the operator without requiring complex mechanical detents.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical detents and end stops are used, then tactile feedback is provided, but the knob requires resetting to an original position after use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a continuous rotation knob without mechanical end stops or detents that would require resetting. The electromagnetic braking system provides continuous variable resistive torque throughout the rotation range, allowing the knob to remain in its final position after use while still providing tactile guidance during operation.
3Loss of information
If visual and audio warnings are used, then trailer position information is conveyed, but tactile feedback is insufficient for precise control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements tactile feedback through variable electromagnetic resistive torque that correlates with the trailer's position relative to the vehicle. As the trailer deviates from the desired path, the knob encounters increasing resistive force, providing intuitive tactile guidance that complements visual and audio warnings to enable more precise control.
4Adaptability or versatility
If customizable tactile feedback is implemented, then user interaction is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single electromagnetic braking system to provide multiple functions: it generates resistive torque for tactile feedback, adjusts torque based on trailer position, and eliminates the need for separate mechanical detent mechanisms. This multi-functional approach enables customizable tactile feedback without proportionally increasing system complexity.
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
Enhances user feedback with customizable tactile simulation of detents and end stops, allowing for more precise control of trailer positioning without the need for manual resetting, improving user interaction with the system.
Implementation Method 1
adjust a rotational torque of the knob when the knob is rotated from a first rotational position to a second rotational position based on a relative virtual rotational distance
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for operating a rotatable knob module with adjustable tactile feedback. The rotatable knob module includes a knob configured to continuously rotate about a center axis and an electronic processor. The electronic processor is configured to determine a current trailer angle, define a virtual center position of the knob based on the current trailer angle, and adjust a rotational torque of the knob when the knob is rotated from a first rotational position to a second rotational position based on a relative virtual rotational distance of the second rotational position from the virtual center position.