Shift Plate Control Panel Layout for Accessible Off-Road Controls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control panels in off-road vehicles are inconveniently located in the dash console, making it difficult to access and control vehicle functions during racing or navigating difficult terrain.
Innovation Solution
A shift plate control panel with a longitudinal slot for the shift stick and a control panel with multiple control buttons, electrically coupled to various vehicle systems, allowing for convenient access and control of vehicle functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the control panel is located in the dash console panel, then the vehicle functions can be controlled, but the accessibility and convenience are poor during racing or navigating difficult terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel is extracted from the traditional dash console location and relocated to the shift plate area, which is more accessible to the driver. This extraction principle allows the control panel to be positioned in a location that does not interfere with the steering wheel or dashboard structure, while providing easier access during off-road operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The shift plate is designed to serve multiple functions: it maintains its primary function of facilitating gear shifting while simultaneously housing the control panel for vehicle functions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate control locations and integrates control accessibility with the existing shift mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If the control panel is relocated to the shift plate area, then the accessibility is improved, but the space utilization and integration with existing structure become challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel is arranged in a linear configuration along the periphery of the shift plate, utilizing the available surface area efficiently. This linear arrangement allows multiple control buttons to be positioned in a space-constrained environment while maintaining accessibility and not interfering with the shift stick movement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control buttons are arranged on the shift plate, then the control of multiple vehicle functions is enabled, but the arrangement and layout become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel is designed with a flexible layout that can be adapted to different shift plate geometries and sizes. The linear arrangement of control buttons along the periphery allows for dynamic positioning that accommodates various vehicle configurations and function requirements without creating excessive complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A shift plate control panel for an off-road vehicle is provided. The shift plate control panel may include a shift plate member having a longitudinal slot configured for a shift stick to travel within during shifting. The shift plate control panel may also include a control panel with at least one control button. The control panel may be coupled to the shift plate member. Further, the control panel is configured to electrically couple to at least one vehicle system corresponding to the at least one control button. The vehicle systems may be a horn, a dome light, bumper lights, a pillar light, a pumper, headlights, a fuel tank switch, and the like. These control buttons may be customized based on the vehicle and driver preferences.