Steering Wheel Shift Interface for One-Hand Cruising Mode Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for setting a vehicle's operating state are complex and not easily accessible for simple operation by drivers.
Innovation Solution
A human/machine interface on the steering wheel with at least one first and one second switch segment allows for the automatic setting of a cruising mode by simultaneous operation of these segments, enabling drivers to set different transmission functions with either one or both hands, including upshifting and downshifting gears, using either a single shift paddle or two separate switches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate switches or controls are provided for different transmission functions, then the transmission control functions are comprehensive and versatile, but the device complexity increases and the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple transmission control functions (upshifting, downshifting, and cruising mode setting) into a single switch with multiple switch segments. This single switch integrates functions that would traditionally require separate controls, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive transmission control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The single switch is designed to perform multiple functions: individual operation of first and second switch segments controls upshifting and downshifting, while simultaneous operation of both segments activates cruising mode. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple separate switches while preserving all necessary transmission control options.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate switches are provided for transmission control, then each function can be controlled independently, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring multiple hands or fingers
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple transmission control functions are merged into a single switch located on the steering wheel, allowing all controls to be accessed and operated with one hand. The switch segments are arranged so that individual segments can be pressed independently for upshifting/downshifting, and both segments can be pressed simultaneously for cruising mode activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The single switch acts as an intermediary device that consolidates multiple control functions into one accessible location on the steering wheel. This intermediary structure allows the driver to maintain one-hand steering while accessing all transmission control functions through a unified interface.
3Ease of operation
If a single switch with multiple segments is used, then the ease of operation is improved by enabling one-hand control, but the device complexity increases due to the multi-segment switch design
Solution Approach 1:
The switch is segmented into distinct first and second switch segments that can be operated independently or simultaneously. This segmentation allows different functions to be assigned to different segments while maintaining a unified single-switch structure that is accessible with one hand, balancing operational ease with functional complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments relate to a method for setting a cruising mode of a vehicle, wherein a human/machine interface is arranged on a steering wheel of the vehicle for shifting a transmission of the vehicle, this human/machine interface comprising at least one first and at least one second switch segment and at least one switch, wherein the switch segments are arranged on the at least one switch, and in the event that the at least one first and the at least one second switch segment of the at least one switch are activated at the same time the cruising mode is set for the vehicle.