Rotatable Ring Start Stop Switch for Vehicle Power Mode Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing keyless start/stop systems for vehicles do not allow easy activation of specific power modes, such as radio operation without engine start, and are often complex and space-consuming, making them difficult for drivers to use and install.
Innovation Solution
A start/stop switch with a centrally located button and a rotatable outer ring that generates electronic signals to control different vehicle power functions, allowing easy activation of modes like 'R' and '15' positions, integrating power management through an ECU, and allowing engine start/stop via a single control unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple controls are integrated into one unit, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation for specific functions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated switch is segmented into distinct functional zones: the inner push button area for engine control and the outer rotatable ring for power mode selection. This spatial segmentation maintains operational clarity despite integration, allowing drivers to intuitively understand which part controls which function.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the integrated switch have specialized properties: the outer ring provides rotational movement with detent positions for mode selection, while the central button provides linear push action for engine start/stop. This local differentiation of operational qualities ensures each function remains easy to operate within the integrated design.
2Ease of operation
If a conventional mechanical key is used, then the ease of operation is simple, but the reliability deteriorates due to loss, misplacement or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical key system is replaced with an electronic keyless recognition system. The start/stop switch incorporates sensors and electronic circuits that detect the presence of an authorized key fob or card, eliminating the need for physical key insertion and turning while maintaining secure access control.
3Ease of operation
If separate controls for power modes and engine start are used, then the ease of operation for each function is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control for power mode selection and engine start/stop functions are merged into a single integrated switch unit. The outer rotatable ring handles power mode selection (R-position, 15-position, 0-position), while the central push button handles engine start/stop, combining what would traditionally be separate controls into one compact component.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated start/stop switch serves multiple functions: it controls power mode selection through the outer ring rotation, controls engine start/stop through the central button, and incorporates keyless recognition. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of controls while maintaining ease of operation for each specific function.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention refers to a device (1) for powering/controlling the electrical system and the engine in a vehicle comprising a start/stop switch (1) including a centrally located button 5 (2). The invention is achieved by that the start/stop switch (1) is provided with an outer substantially circular and rotatable ring (3), and that the ring (3) is arranged to generate an electronic signal (S), within the start/stop switch (1), when moved, and that the signal (S) directly or 10 indirectly is controlling an electronic system (5) comprising power management units (11-14), at least one of which (12,13) powers one or two of the "R-system" and "15-system" in the vehicle and a further one (14) powers the vehicles engine.