Steering Wheel Adjusting Element for Precise Speed Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering wheel designs for motor vehicles with longitudinally dynamic control systems lack intuitive and efficient operating elements, often causing confusion between control systems and restricting the range of available commands due to limited space and lack of clear identification.
Innovation Solution
A steering wheel with an adjusting element that can be actuated in two opposite directions with multiple steps, allowing for precise control of speed changes and haptic feedback, along with a preselection element to differentiate between control systems, enabling expanded operability and intuitive use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a steering gear arm is provided for operating a longitudinally dynamic control system, then the control system can be operated, but it may be confused with other steering gear arms (such as turn signal lever or wiper lever)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing specific markings or identification features at particular locations on the steering gear arm. The marking element is placed in a specific region (on the side facing the driver) to provide local identification without changing the entire structure, thus resolving the confusion issue while maintaining simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If only a few operating elements are arranged on the steering wheel due to limited space, then aesthetic and ergonomic requirements are met, but the extent of operating commands is narrowly restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling the steering gear arm to perform multiple functions: it can operate both the longitudinally dynamic control system and serve as a marking/identification element. This allows a single operating element to provide multiple commands and information, expanding operational versatility without requiring additional space on the steering wheel.
3Loss of information
If marking or identification of the steering gear arm is provided, then confusion is reduced, but the space available on the steering wheel is further limited
Solution Approach 1:
The marking element is implemented as a localized feature on a specific portion of the steering gear arm (on the driver-facing side), rather than as a separate component. This local approach provides necessary identification while occupying minimal space, thus resolving the contradiction between information provision and space conservation.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering wheel for a motor vehicle has operating elements for controlling at least one longitudinally dynamic control system of the motor vehicle. The operating elements include an adjusting element for changing a set speed value for the longitudinally dynamic control system, which adjusting element can be actuated in two opposite actuating directions in order to predefine a direction of the change of the set speed value by way of the actuating direction. The adjusting element can be actuated in at least two steps in each of the two actuating directions with respect to the extent of the actuation in order to predefine an extent of the change of the set speed value by way of the extent of the actuation.