Steering Wheel Illumination for Autonomous Handover
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in semi-autonomous and autonomous vehicles is the smooth handover of control from the vehicle to the human driver during transitions from autonomous-steering mode to manual-steering mode, which can cause driver distraction and requires effective communication and mechanical intervention.
Innovation Solution
A steer-by-wire system with an illuminated steering wheel display and sensors to detect hand engagement, allowing the computer to initiate transitions based on driver input, such as grasping the wheel or pressing the brake pedal, while minimizing driver distraction through strategic lighting and actuator control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the vehicle uses autonomous-steering mode, then the driver's workload is reduced, but the handover process to manual control becomes complex and may cause driver distraction
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting driver intent (through steering wheel torque, brake pedal pressure, or gear shift patterns) before a full handover is needed. The illuminated display on the steering wheel provides advance notice to the driver that a handover is upcoming, allowing the driver to prepare mentally and physically for the transition without sudden surprises.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors driver inputs and vehicle state, providing feedback through the illuminated steering wheel display that communicates the current automation level and handover status to the driver. This feedback loop ensures the driver remains informed about the vehicle's autonomous status and prepares appropriately for mode transitions.
2Loss of information
If the vehicle illuminates lights on the steering wheel to communicate with the driver, then communication effectiveness is improved, but driver distraction may increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using general ambient lighting or dashboard displays that can distract the driver, the patent localizes the communication interface directly on the steering wheel rim at the 6 o'clock position. This location is naturally in the driver's peripheral vision and does not require the driver to shift focus from the road, thereby maintaining communication effectiveness while minimizing distraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The illuminated display uses periodic or intermittent lighting patterns to communicate with the driver rather than continuous illumination. The lights activate only when relevant information needs to be conveyed (such as during mode transitions or when driver input is detected), reducing overall visual stimulation and potential distraction while maintaining effective communication at critical moments.
3Ease of operation
If the steering wheel is allowed to move freely during autonomous mode, then driver comfort is improved, but control precision during handover may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The steering wheel system dynamically adjusts its degree of freedom based on the operational mode. During autonomous steering, the actuator allows the steering wheel to move freely, providing driver comfort and natural positioning. When handover is initiated, the actuator engages to constrain the steering wheel's movement, ensuring precise control and preventing unintended steering inputs during the transition period.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer is programmed to, upon determining that a vehicle entered an autonomous-steering mode, deactivate a plurality of lights on a steering-wheel rim; and upon initiating a transition of the vehicle from the autonomous-steering mode to a manual-steering mode, illuminate at least one of the lights that is at a steering-wheel angle corresponding to a current steering angle of the vehicle.