4-Wheel Independent Steering Mode Control with Two-Switch Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 4-wheel independent steering systems require multiple switches for mode transitions, leading to space constraints and driver confusion in selecting the appropriate mode.
Innovation Solution
A control apparatus and method utilizing a sensor module, switch module with two switches on the steering wheel, and a processor to perform steering mode transitions based on switch combinations, allowing for fewer switches and organized mode transitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switches are installed for each steering mode, then mode transition capability is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Two switches on the steering wheel are designed to perform multiple functions by combining different switch states (ON/OFF combinations) to represent various steering modes. The processor interprets different switch combinations to execute different steering mode transitions, allowing a small number of switches to control multiple steering modes without requiring a separate switch for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the state parameters of the two switches (ON/OFF combinations) to represent different steering modes. By varying the switch states rather than adding more physical switches, the system achieves multiple steering mode transitions with minimal hardware, resolving the contradiction between mode versatility and device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switches are installed for each steering mode, then mode transition capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to driver confusion
Solution Approach 1:
The two switches are designed with clear positional identification (left and right sides of steering wheel) and simple ON/OFF states that are easy for drivers to understand and operate. This universal design approach maintains ease of operation while achieving multiple steering mode transitions through combination logic in the processor.
3Device complexity
If fewer switches are used, then device complexity is reduced, but steering mode transition capability may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes the state parameters of two switches (each having ON/OFF states) to represent multiple steering modes. By changing the combination of switch states rather than adding more switches, the system achieves versatile steering mode transitions with minimal hardware complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of adding more switches in the same dimension (number of physical components), the system transitions to another dimension by utilizing the combinatorial states of existing switches. The processor interprets different switch combinations to achieve multiple steering modes, effectively adding capability without increasing physical complexity.
4Ease of operation
If switches are placed on the steering wheel, then ease of operation is improved, but space constraints on the steering wheel increase
Solution Approach 1:
The two switches are strategically positioned on the left and right sides of the steering wheel, utilizing available peripheral spaces. This local placement optimizes driver accessibility while minimizing impact on the central steering wheel area, maintaining ease of operation without significantly compromising steering wheel space.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is an apparatus for controlling a 4-wheel independent steering system. The apparatus includes a sensor module (110), a switch module (160) including a plurality of switches for receiving an instruction for the transition of a steering mode of the 4-wheel independent steering system, and a processor (130) configured to perform a steering mode transition operation of the 4-wheel independent steering system based on a combination of the switches of the switch module.