Steering-Wheel Accelerator Force Profile for Stable Manual Throttle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Drivers with physical disabilities face challenges in maintaining a constant accelerator operation state due to varying operation reaction forces, which affects riding comfort and safety, especially during steering maneuvers.
Innovation Solution
A driving assistance device with a manually operable accelerator operation unit near the steering wheel featuring an inflection point in the operation reaction force, allowing for easy retention of the accelerator state and setting target requested acceleration to approximately zero, utilizing first and second operation reaction force generation units and support portions arranged in left-right symmetry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operation reaction force is continuously adjusted according to vehicle speed and steering angle, then fatigue of the driver's hand is reduced, but the driver has difficulty retaining a constant accelerator operation state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the operation reaction force characteristics to include an inflection point. The reaction force curve is designed with a specific inflection point where the rate of change shifts, creating a natural retention zone. This allows the reaction force to be adjusted according to vehicle speed and steering angle while maintaining a constant operation state through the inflection point mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring vehicle speed and steering angle to dynamically adjust the operation reaction force. The control unit receives information about vehicle operating conditions and modifies the reaction force characteristics in real-time, creating a feedback loop that maintains stable accelerator operation while adapting to changing driving conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the driver simultaneously performs steering wheel operation and manual accelerator operation, then accessibility for physically handicapped persons is improved, but operation force changes during steering causing unwanted acceleration or deceleration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a specific inflection point in the operation reaction force curve that provides a localized stable operation zone. This inflection point is positioned to correspond with typical steering operation forces, allowing drivers to maintain constant accelerator input during steering maneuvers. The reaction force characteristics are tailored to provide stability precisely where needed during combined steering and acceleration operations.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the operation reaction force rapidly increases after an inflection point, then retention of accelerator operation becomes easy, but the operation amount becomes sensitive to force changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by designing the operation reaction force curve with a specific inflection point that creates a natural retention zone. The rapid increase in reaction force after the inflection point provides stable retention, while the curve shape is carefully controlled to minimize sensitivity to force changes in the operational range, balancing stability with precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A driving assistance device enables a driver who manually performs an accelerator operation and a steering operation to easily retain an accelerator operation state in a constant state. A driving assistance device includes a manually operable accelerator operation unit in the vicinity of a steering wheel provided in front of a driver seat in a vehicle cabin. The accelerator operation unit is operable in a state where the steering wheel is gripped and an operation reaction force of the accelerator operation unit exhibits an inflection point POI at which the operation reaction force rapidly becomes large in response to an increase in an operation amount of the accelerator operation unit.