Steering Wheel Control Asymmetric Force Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle steering wheel operating devices lack sufficient operating safety and convenience, particularly in controlling systems like cruise control and distance regulation, due to potential simultaneous actuation of multiple axes and lack of intuitive feedback.
Innovation Solution
A rotating and push-button operating element with distinct first and second rotation axes, providing mechanical advantage only for the second axis to prevent simultaneous actuation, and featuring haptic feedback through resistance and a web design for intuitive operation, allowing separate actuation in three directions without unintended simultaneous actions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the operating element allows rotation about both first and second rotation axes, then the operating element can control multiple functions, but simultaneous actuation about both axes may occur causing operating errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by creating an asymmetric force transmission mechanism where the second rotation axis has a mechanical advantage (larger force application point distance) while the first rotation axis has no substantial mechanical advantage. This asymmetric design ensures that actuation forces are directionally selective, preventing simultaneous actuation and ensuring reliable single-axis operation at a time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the force transmission characteristics change based on the actuation direction. The mechanical advantage is dynamically engaged only when actuating about the second rotation axis, while actuation about the first rotation axis does not engage this mechanical advantage, thereby dynamically preventing simultaneous actuation.
2Ease of operation
If the force application point has mechanical advantage for both rotation axes, then actuation is easier, but unintended simultaneous actuation may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating different force transmission properties at different locations and for different actuation directions. The force application point is specifically positioned to provide mechanical advantage only for the second rotation axis, while the first rotation axis lacks this mechanical advantage, ensuring localized and directional actuation control.
3Ease of operation
If the operating element provides haptic feedback through resistance, then operating convenience is improved, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing the operating element to generate its own haptic feedback through inherent mechanical resistance during rotation. The operating element itself provides the feedback mechanism through its interaction with the force transmission system, eliminating the need for separate feedback devices and reducing overall system 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 operating safety and convenience by preventing accidental actuations and providing clear haptic feedback, allowing for intuitive control of multiple vehicle systems like cruise control and distance regulation with distinct actuation stages and resistance.
Implementation Method 1
The force application point has a mechanical advantage in relation to the second rotation axis when actuating the operating element about the second rotation axis. The force application point has no substantial mechanical advantage in relation to the second rotation axis when actuating the operating element about the first rotation axis
Data Source
AI summary
An operating device for a steering wheel comprises an operating element, which can be selectively rotated about a first rotation axis and a second rotation axis for controlling a control system by means of an actuation, wherein the operating element can be rotated to an actuation stage from a starting position, wherein the first rotation axis is coaxial to the longitudinal axis of the operating element, and the second rotation axis is substantially transverse to the first rotation axis, wherein a force application point has a mechanical advantage with respect to the second rotation axis when actuated about the second rotation axis, and wherein the force application point has no substantial mechanical advantage in relation to the second rotation axis when the operating element is actuated about the first rotation axis, in order to prevent a simultaneous actuation of the operating element about the first and second rotation axes.