Steering Wheel Control Layout for Blind L2/L3 Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motor vehicle control units on the steering wheel often lead to maloperation due to lack of distinction between operating elements, particularly for safety-relevant functions, especially when drivers are unfamiliar with the operating concept or when visual checks are not possible.
Innovation Solution
A control unit with an L2 operating element recessed and an L3 operating element raised on the steering wheel, providing a clear and intuitive design through tactile differentiation, allowing blind operation and reducing the risk of maloperation by creating a haptic barrier between safety-critical functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If operating elements are arranged closely together on the steering wheel control unit, then the control unit occupies less space and is more compact, but the distinction between individual operating elements becomes insufficient leading to maloperation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by giving different tactile characteristics to different operating elements. Specifically, the first operating element (L2) has a recessed surface while the second operating element (L3) has a raised surface, creating locally distinct tactile qualities that enable drivers to differentiate between functions without visual confirmation, thereby maintaining reliability in a compact arrangement.
2Ease of manufacture
If operating elements have uniform design, then manufacturing is simpler and cost is reduced, but drivers cannot intuitively distinguish between different functions especially when unfamiliar with the operating concept
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by varying the surface geometry of operating elements. The first operating element features a recessed surface configuration while the second operating element has a raised surface configuration. This creates intuitively distinguishable tactile feedback for different functions while remaining manufacturable through standard molding techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional flat operating surfaces to three-dimensional forms with varying heights and depths. The recessed and raised surfaces create vertical dimensionality that provides tactile differentiation, enabling intuitive operation without compromising manufacturing feasibility through conventional plastic molding processes.
3Reliability
If drivers must visually check control units to ensure correct function activation, then operational accuracy improves, but the driver's attention is diverted from the road reducing safety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service operation through tactile differentiation. The distinct recessed and raised surface configurations allow drivers to identify and activate the correct operating elements through touch alone, without requiring visual confirmation. This self-service capability eliminates the need for drivers to divert attention from the road while maintaining activation accuracy.
4Loss of information
If the control unit provides detailed visual feedback for each operating element, then function distinction is improved, but the complexity of the control unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex visual information systems with simple mechanical tactile differentiation. Instead of using complex visual displays, icons, or lighting schemes to distinguish functions, the patent employs straightforward geometric variations in surface height (recessed vs. raised). This mechanical substitution maintains clear function distinction while minimizing control unit complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A control unit for arrangement on a steering wheel in a motor vehicle includes a main body with a central plateau, an L2 operating element which is designed to activate a driver assistance system having a degree of automation corresponding to the SAE level 2, and an L3 operating element which is designed to activate a driver assistance system having a degree of automation corresponding to the SAE level 3. The control unit is characterized in that the L2 operating element is recessed with respect to the central plateau and in that the L3 operating element is raised in the manner of a relief with respect to the central plateau.