Retractable Steering Wheel Button Module for Reach-Free Controls
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Solution Overview
Problem
The limited space on the steering wheel for buttons and the need for drivers to stretch and look away while operating center fascia buttons during driving complicates immediate operation of functions like heater and air conditioner control.
Innovation Solution
A steering wheel-mounted button module with a retractable unit and rotatable button unit that unfolds from the steering wheel, eliminating the need for center fascia buttons and allowing easy manual operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If buttons are mounted on the center fascia, then the steering wheel area remains simple and uncluttered, but the driver must stretch their arm and look away from the road to operate the buttons
Solution Approach 1:
The button unit is rotated from a horizontal mounting on the retractable unit to a vertical orientation when deployed, allowing the buttons to face the driver directly while maintaining a compact retracted profile. This dimensional transformation enables the buttons to be operated without arm stretching while keeping the steering wheel structure simple when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The button module transitions from a static center fascia mounting to a dynamic retractable and rotatable structure mounted on the steering wheel. The retractable unit extends and retracts, while the button unit rotates to face the driver during operation, providing adaptability that improves both ease of operation and driving safety.
2Ease of operation
If buttons are relocated from the center fascia to the steering wheel, then driver convenience is improved, but the steering wheel structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The button unit is nested within the retractable unit, which itself is nested within the case mounted on the steering wheel. This multi-level nesting allows the complex button mechanism to be concealed within a compact structure, maintaining a simple steering wheel appearance while providing advanced functionality when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The button module is divided into separate functional components: the case mounted on the steering wheel, the retractable unit that extends outward, and the rotatable button unit that faces the driver. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall integration into the steering wheel structure.
3Ease of operation
If a retractable and rotatable button unit is implemented on the steering wheel, then button visibility and operability are maximized, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The button unit utilizes its own weight and the elastic member to automatically rotate into the correct facing position when the retractable unit extends. The elastic member provides the necessary rotational force without requiring an additional motor or actuator, simplifying the manufacturing process while achieving the desired button orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic members replace a mechanical locking or positioning system with a magnetic attraction mechanism. The magnetic force automatically guides and secures the button unit in its correct position, eliminating the need for complex mechanical joints or adjustment mechanisms and reducing manufacturing complexity.
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
Enhances driver convenience by enabling easy button operation without reaching, increases AVN size, and creates storage space by relocating buttons to the steering wheel, while reducing manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a rear end of the button unit elastically supported to rotate away from the retractable unit
Implementation Method 2
The case and the retractable unit may be provided with a first magnetic member and a second magnetic member, respectively, to attract each other
Data Source
AI summary
A steering wheel-mounted button module may include a case mounted on a steering wheel body, a retractable unit installed inside the case to be movable forward and backward, and a button unit rotatably installed on the retractable unit. In particular, the button unit includes a rear end elastically supported to rotate away from the retractable unit and a button. The button unit may rotate forward to unfold based on the retractable unit moving forward out of the case.