Steering Wheel Control Carrier for Driver Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle steering systems with controls integrated near the steering wheel face challenges in accessibility and safety due to rigidly connected controls that do not turn with the wheel, making operation difficult during steering.
Innovation Solution
A non-rotatably connected control element carrier positioned between the steering wheel rim and display panel, allowing controls to be operated safely and easily during steering, with a design that keeps the control elements behind the steering wheel rim and above the spindle for improved visibility and accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If controls are rigidly connected to the steering column and do not turn with the steering wheel, then the steering column structure is simplified, but operation becomes almost impossible while steering is being performed
Solution Approach 1:
The control element carrier is rotatably connected to the steering column, allowing it to rotate together with the steering wheel. This dynamic connection enables the controls to move with the steering wheel during steering operations, making them accessible and operable while maintaining a relatively simple steering column structure without requiring rigid repositioning mechanisms.
2Area of stationary object
If controls are arranged in control islands below the steering wheel spindle, then space is utilized efficiently, but the controls become difficult to see
Solution Approach 1:
The control element carrier is arranged in the radial direction between the steering wheel rim and the display panel, utilizing the radial space dimension rather than positioning controls below the spindle. This radial arrangement places controls within the steering wheel circumference where they are easily visible to the driver while efficiently using the available space between the rim and display panel.
3Area of stationary object
If controls are integrated in the limited space around the steering wheel impact absorber, then space efficiency is improved, but accessibility and safety are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of integrating controls in the limited axial space around the impact absorber, the control element carrier utilizes the radial dimension between the steering wheel rim and display panel. This radial positioning provides adequate space for control elements while maintaining excellent accessibility and safety, as controls are within easy reach and visible to the driver without compromising impact absorption functionality.
4Ease of operation
If control elements are placed behind the steering wheel rim, then visibility and accessibility are improved, but interference with steering movements may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The control element carrier serves as an intermediary structure positioned in the radial space between the steering wheel rim and display panel. It carries control elements that are accessible and visible to the driver while its compact design and strategic positioning ensure it does not interfere with steering wheel rotation or steering movements, effectively mediating between visibility requirements and steering functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising a steering wheel (LR) that encompasses a steering wheel rim (LRK). The motor vehicle further comprises a display panel (ANZF) that is disposed behind the steering wheel (LR), and at least one control element support (BT, BT1) which is disposed between the steering wheel rim (LRK) and the display panel (ANZF) and is fixedly connected to the steering wheel (LR).