Steering Wheel Light Bar Assembly Wrapping for Driver Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Steering wheel mounted driver monitoring systems (DMS) face challenges in effectively detecting driver distraction and drowsiness, particularly in providing optimal illumination and feedback to the driver while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing and functional design.
Innovation Solution
A light bar assembly integrated into the steering wheel rim, utilizing a housing with mating shells, a wrapping covering, and a lens to facilitate infrared and visible light emission for driver monitoring, along with a method of wrapping the assembly using multiple strips to secure it aesthetically and functionally, enhancing driver feedback and monitoring capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a light bar assembly is integrated into the steering wheel rim for driver monitoring, then the detection capability for driver distraction and drowsiness is improved, but the aesthetic appearance and functional design of the steering wheel deteriorate due to the added components and wiring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the light bar assembly from a traditional dashboard or overhead position and relocates it directly into the steering wheel rim structure. This extraction and relocation allows the monitoring system to be integrated into an existing aesthetic framework (the steering wheel) rather than adding separate visible components, thereby maintaining appearance while improving detection capability through closer proximity to the driver's face.
Solution Approach 2:
The light bar assembly is nested within the housing structure that is itself integrated into the steering wheel rim. The housing contains the light bar, diffuser, and optical components, creating a nested configuration where the monitoring system is hidden within the aesthetic shell of the steering wheel, resolving the contradiction between detection capability and appearance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wrapping strips are used to secure the light bar assembly, then the functional integration and aesthetic seamless appearance are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wrapping structure is segmented into multiple discrete strips rather than using a single complex fastening mechanism. Each wrapping strip independently secures a portion of the housing to the steering wheel rim, allowing for modular assembly and simplifying the overall construction process despite the multi-component nature of the integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The wrapping strips function as flexible securing elements that can conform to the curved surface of the steering wheel rim. These thin, flexible strips provide secure mechanical attachment while remaining visually unobtrusive, achieving functional integration without adding significant structural complexity or visual clutter.
3Measurement precision
If the light bar assembly is positioned closer to the driver for better monitoring, then the detection accuracy of head and eye direction is improved, but the risk of driver distraction or discomfort from light exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by using a diffuser element that selectively modifies light distribution. The diffuser scatters the infrared and visible light from the light bar in a controlled manner, concentrating illumination on the driver's face for accurate detection while preventing excessive or uncomfortable light exposure to the driver's eyes and surrounding areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The diffuser acts as an intermediary between the light bar and the driver's face. It receives concentrated light from the light bar and transforms it into a softer, more evenly distributed illumination pattern, enabling close positioning for accurate detection while mediating the light exposure to prevent harmful effects or driver discomfort.
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
The solution provides effective illumination and feedback to the driver, improving the detection of distraction and drowsiness while maintaining a clean and functional steering wheel design, thereby reducing the risk of vehicular accidents.
Implementation Method 1
a light bar assembly (100) integrated into a steering wheel (190) to provide illumination and feedback to a driver of the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a housing with mating shells, a wrapping covering, and a lens to facilitate infrared and visible light emission
Data Source
AI summary
Wraps for a steering wheel and methods of wrapping a steering wheel with an integrated light bar assembly are disclosed. The light bar assembly is configured to be mounted to a rim of a steering wheel of a vehicle. The light bar assemblies can include components of a driver monitoring system. The light bar assembly includes two shells defining or surrounding the rim and a wrapping surrounding the two shells. A portion of the wrapping is tucked into a slot disposed between the two shells forming a slit. A lens is disposed within the slit and pinched by the wrapping to prevent leakage of light around the lens.