Shift Selector Device Integrating Automated Driving Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shift selector devices for vehicles with automated driving systems are complex, with operation levers protruding from the steering column, leading to a cluttered structure and difficulty in selecting and activating various control functions, especially in unfamiliar or visually challenging environments.
Innovation Solution
A shift selector device with an input member, position setting mechanism, and activation controller that allows a driver to select and activate automated driving functions by displacing the input member within a defined range, eliminating the need for a separate operation lever by integrating control function activation into the shift selector mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate operation lever is added to activate automated driving functions, then the automated driving system can be activated, but the device structure becomes complex and cluttered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the shift selector device and the automated driving activation function into a single integrated system. The shift lever can be displaced to selection positions for gear shifting and to activation positions for enabling automated driving functions, eliminating the need for a separate operation lever and reducing structural complexity while maintaining both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The shift selector device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can select gear positions (P, R, N, D, etc.) and simultaneously activate automated driving functions. By making the shift lever multi-functional, the patent reduces the overall number of components and simplifies the device structure while providing versatile control capabilities.
2Device complexity
If multiple control functions are integrated into the shift selector, then the number of components is reduced, but the ease of operation decreases due to difficulty in selecting functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent defines specific displacement ranges and positions along the shift lever's movement path, with each position corresponding to a specific function (gear selection or automated driving activation). This spatial differentiation allows the driver to easily distinguish and select between multiple functions by displacing the lever to different locations, maintaining ease of operation despite the multi-functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable range of the shift lever is divided into distinct selection positions and activation positions. This segmentation of the continuous movement range into discrete functional zones allows the driver to clearly identify and select specific functions, preventing confusion while maintaining a compact integrated structure.
3Device complexity
If the shift lever is used for both gear selection and automated driving activation, then the structure is simplified, but the reliability decreases due to potential for erroneous operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system requires the shift lever to be displaced to a specific activation position within the movable range to enable automated driving functions. This predefined displacement requirement acts as a preliminary action that confirms the driver's intent, reducing the risk of erroneous activation while maintaining the simplified integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit monitors the displacement position of the shift lever and provides feedback to determine whether the lever has reached the required activation position. This feedback mechanism ensures accurate recognition of the driver's intent and prevents erroneous operation, maintaining reliability in the integrated design.
Data Source
AI summary
A shift selector device includes an input member, a position setting mechanism and an activation controller. A selection operation of selecting a shift position is input to the input member. The position setting mechanism defines a movable range of the input member while supporting the input member in a displaceable manner. A plurality of the shift positions and at least one activation position linked to an automated travel system are disposed in the movable range. When the activation position is selected by displacement of the input member, the activation controller outputs an activation instruction for instructing a control function of the automated travel system linked to the activation position to be activated.