Vehicle Seat Haptic Alert System Using PWM
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collision avoidance systems often distract drivers with visual and auditory alerts, potentially increasing response time and decreasing effectiveness due to their distracting nature.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle seat-based haptic alert system using pulse width modulation (PWM) and on/off compensation patterns generated by haptic actuators to provide targeted and localized haptic feedback to the driver, based on interior and exterior vehicle conditions, to alert the driver of potential collisions without visual or auditory distractions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If visual and auditory alerts are used to warn drivers of potential collision threats, then the driver is informed of the threat, but the driver becomes distracted and confused which increases response time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual and auditory alert systems with a haptic feedback system that uses tactile sensations through the seat. The controller activates haptic actuators embedded in the seat to generate localized vibrations or pressure changes, substituting traditional sensory channels with a tactile interface that provides collision warnings through physical contact with the driver's body.
Solution Approach 2:
The haptic actuators embedded in the seat serve as an intermediary between the collision detection system and the driver. Instead of directly presenting visual or auditory information that competes for the driver's attention, the system uses the seat as a mediator to transmit tactile signals that convey collision threat information through the driver's sense of touch, reducing cognitive distraction.
2Loss of information
If visual and auditory alerts are used to warn drivers, then collision threats are communicated, but driver confusion increases and effectiveness of the collision avoidance system decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The haptic feedback system applies localized tactile sensations to specific regions of the seat corresponding to the direction or nature of the collision threat. Different areas of the seat can be activated independently to provide spatially differentiated feedback, allowing the driver to understand the threat's location or type through the pattern and position of haptic stimuli rather than through potentially confusing visual or auditory signals.
3Loss of time
If haptic actuators are used to provide collision warnings, then driver distraction is reduced, but the system complexity increases with multiple actuators and control patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The haptic feedback system divides the seat into multiple zones with independent haptic actuators, allowing localized and targeted feedback to different body regions. This segmentation enables precise control of haptic patterns to convey specific collision information while maintaining system manageability through modular actuator units that can be independently controlled based on threat characteristics.
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
The haptic alert system provides effective and efficient collision warnings that reduce driver distraction, enhance reaction times, and improve the overall effectiveness of collision avoidance by using localized and intuitive haptic feedback.
Implementation Method 1
calculating at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) pattern and an on/off compensation pattern based on the determined interior conditions and exterior conditions
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and vehicles are provided for providing haptic feedback to a vehicle occupant. In one embodiment, the method includes determining at least one of interior conditions and exterior conditions of a vehicle. The vehicle includes a plurality of haptic actuators disposed in a seat. The method further includes calculating at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) pattern and an on/off compensation pattern based on the determined interior conditions and exterior conditions. The method further includes generating a signal with active periods that include at least one of the calculated patterns to command the plurality of haptic actuators to produce haptic pulses.