Steering Wheel Switch Module with Force-Torque Sensor

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional steering wheel switches require drivers to release the grip to operate, leading to hazardous and unsafe driving conditions due to their small size and complex layout, increasing the likelihood of accidental activation.

Innovation Solution

A switch module integrated into the steering wheel featuring a force-torque sensor and feedback module, allowing drivers to perform switching operations like pressing or twisting while maintaining contact, with a feedback sensation confirming the action, such as auditory signals or vibrations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional switches are arranged around the grip portion in complicated patterns, then multiple vehicle functions can be controlled, but the driver must release the grip portion to operate them, creating hazardous driving conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevehicle function control capabilityVSAvoidswitch operation safety

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple switch functions into a single integrated switch module built into the steering wheel grip portion. This consolidation allows the driver to operate multiple vehicle functions through one unified interface without needing to reach for or release the grip to access separately arranged switches, thereby maintaining hand contact with the wheel while controlling various functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The force-torque sensor acts as an intermediary that detects the driver's pressing force on the integrated switch module and converts it into appropriate switch activation signals. This mediator enables reliable detection of driver intent through force application while keeping the switch operation simple and integrated within the grip area.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Area of stationary object

If conventional switches are made small and arranged in complicated patterns, then space is saved on the steering wheel, but the likelihood of inadvertent activation increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesteering wheel surface utilizationVSAvoidswitch activation accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple switch functions are merged into a single integrated module with a larger, more deliberate activation area. The force-torque sensor requires a intentional pressing action to activate, reducing the likelihood of accidental activation while maintaining compact overall design within the steering wheel structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the activation parameter from simple contact or small-button pressing to force-torque threshold detection. This requires the driver to apply a deliberate force exceeding a set threshold, making inadvertent activation less likely while still allowing easy intentional operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If switches are built into the steering wheel with force-torque sensor, then switching operation can be performed while maintaining contact with the steering wheel, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveswitch operation convenienceVSAvoidswitch module structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical switch mechanisms with a force-torque sensor-based detection system. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical linkages, moving parts, and physical switch actuators, replacing them with a sensor that detects force application and triggers electronic switch activation, thereby reducing mechanical complexity while improving operational convenience.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables safe and convenient operation of vehicle functions like AVN and HUD without releasing the steering wheel, reducing accidental activations and providing a neat, integrated switch layout.

Implementation Method 1

a force-torque sensor that functions by receiving a torque operating force such as for example, a holding force or a torsional force

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTorque: Torque

Implementation Method 2

The feedback module functions by providing a feedback sensation (e.g. auditory signal or vibration) to the driver

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Data Source

PatentUS9136075B2Switch module built in steering wheel

Publication Date: 2015.09.15 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD

AI summary

Disclosed is a switch module located within a steering wheel of a vehicle that includes an input switch module, a feedback module, and a controller. The input switch module allows a driver to conduct a variety of switching operations by, for example, pressing the left, right, front, or back of the steering wheel, or by making a leftward or rightward torsional motion or a leftward or rightward diagonal motion with respect to the steering wheel. The switch module controller receives inputs from the input switch module that correlate to these switching operations, and outputs a signal to a vehicle device such as, for example, a head up display, and also to a feedback module, which provides a feedback response to the driver confirming the switching operation. The present invention allows the driver to control vehicle devices and systems while maintaining contact with the steering wheel, thereby improving vehicle safety.