Steering Wheel Tilt Adjustment via Driver Head Position Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automobile steering systems do not automatically adjust the position of the steering wheel based on the driver's head and eye position, which can obstruct the view of the instrumentation panel and the road, necessitating manual adjustments for optimal visibility.
Innovation Solution
An automatically-adjusting steering wheel system comprising a steering wheel assembly, a head position sensor, and a master controller that communicates with both to adjust the steering wheel's position and tilt for unobstructed views of the instrumentation panel and road based on the driver's head and eye position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the steering wheel is positioned to be easily reachable by the driver, then the ease of operation is improved, but the view of the instrumentation panel and road is obscured
Solution Approach 1:
The steering wheel position is made dynamically adjustable through motorized tilt and telescoping mechanisms, allowing the system to automatically change the steering wheel position based on detected driver head and eye position, thereby resolving the conflict between accessibility and visibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to detect driver head and eye position and automatically adjusts the steering wheel position without requiring manual input from the driver, making the system self-adjusting based on actual driver needs
2Device complexity
If the steering wheel position is fixed for manual adjustment, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different driver positions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects driver characteristics through sensors and self-adjusts the steering wheel position, eliminating the need for complex manual adjustment mechanisms while providing high adaptability to different drivers
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms are replaced with an automated system using sensors and motorized actuators, reducing the complexity of manual operations while increasing adaptability through automatic detection and adjustment
3Extent of automation
If the steering wheel requires manual adjustment, then the extent of automation is reduced, but the ease of operation is improved through direct control
Solution Approach 1:
The steering wheel adjustment system operates autonomously by detecting driver position and automatically adjusting itself, providing high automation while eliminating the need for manual adjustment effort
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors driver head and eye position through sensors and uses this feedback to automatically adjust the steering wheel position, creating a closed-loop control system that enhances both automation and operational ease
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for detecting the position of the head and/or eye of a driver of an automobile and automatically adjusting the position of the steering wheel based on the head and/or eye position in order to provide the driver with an optimized view of the instrumentation panel and road. The system and method utilizes the vehicle parameters, driver parameters, and various settings to determine the proper position of the steering wheel including the height, proximity to driver, and tilt angle of the steering wheel. The system may also adjust the height and/or length of the steering column in order to adjust and provide the proper position of the steering wheel.