Multi-Axis Steering Column Switch for Hands-On Function Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column switches require the operator to release the steering wheel and divert attention for accurate function selection, which is inconvenient and potentially unsafe.
Innovation Solution
A steering column switch with a tiltable lever cap mounted on orthogonal tilt axes, equipped with sensors, allows function selection without releasing the wheel, using push buttons and/or Hall sensors to detect the lever cap's position and relay the selected function to the vehicle controller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator uses a conventional steering column switch with a rigid base body and handle body, then function selection is possible, but the operator must release the steering wheel and divert attention
Solution Approach 1:
The lever cap is made tiltable about at least two orthogonal tilt axes, transforming the static rigid structure into a dynamic one that can be operated with minimal movement. This allows the operator to select functions by tilting the lever cap while maintaining hand contact with the steering wheel, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and driving safety
Solution Approach 2:
The lever cap is enabled to tilt about multiple orthogonal tilt axes, adding rotational freedom in multiple dimensions. This multi-axis tilting capability allows function selection through small angular movements without requiring the operator to release the steering wheel, simultaneously improving ease of operation and maintaining driving safety
2Ease of operation
If the lever cap is made tiltable about multiple orthogonal tilt axes with sensor integration, then function selection can be performed without releasing the steering wheel, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lever cap integrates multiple functions into a single component: it serves as both the operational interface and the mounting structure for the sensor system. By combining the tilting mechanism and sensor integration into one unified lever cap design, the patent reduces overall device complexity while enabling multi-axis operation for safe function selection
3Reliability
If the lever cap is surrounded by a protective structure with integrated sensors, then the sensor system is protected, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The lever cap serves multiple purposes simultaneously: it protects the sensor system, provides the tilting operation interface, and acts as the structural housing. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate protective structures, reducing overall complexity while maintaining sensor protection and operational capability
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
Enables intuitive and safe function selection by maintaining hand position on the steering wheel, enhancing driving safety and flexibility in adapting to different vehicle configurations.
Implementation Method 1
using push buttons and/or Hall sensors to detect the lever cap's position
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column switch for a motor vehicle, such as an electric motor vehicle, facilitates function selection. The switch includes a rigid lever and a lever cap that at least partially surrounds the lever. The lever cap is mounted on the lever to tilt about at least two tilt axes, which are arranged orthogonally or substantially orthogonal to each other. At least one sensor is provided to detect the tilting of the lever cap and select a corresponding function. The present disclosure enables intuitive and adaptable function selection in motor vehicle steering systems.