Steering Wheel Interface with Windshield Projection for Reduced Driver Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
As the number of in-vehicle operation apparatuses and their functions increase, the operational load on drivers increases due to the need to frequently switch between multiple devices, disrupting their focus on driving.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle user interface system comprising an operation device positioned near the driver's hand position, a display device projecting images onto the windshield, and a control device that displays multiple icons and operation images, allowing drivers to perform operations with minimal visual distraction and posture change.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operation apparatuses are mounted in the vehicle with dedicated operation portions and display portions, then the functionality and versatility of the vehicle system is improved, but the operational load on the driver increases due to frequent eye movements and posture changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple operation apparatuses into a single integrated operation portion located on the steering wheel, allowing the driver to control air conditioning, audio, and other functions without changing posture or frequently moving eyes. Multiple operation switches are integrated into one location that the driver can access naturally while maintaining driving position.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation portion on the steering wheel is designed to control multiple different functions and apparatuses through a unified interface. The same operation switches can select between different operation apparatuses and their respective functions, making the operation portion universal rather than dedicated to a single function.
2Device complexity
If a common operation portion and display portion are used for multiple operation apparatuses, then the device complexity is reduced, but the driver still experiences operational load due to visual distraction from the display portion location
Solution Approach 1:
The display portion is relocated from the traditional dashboard or center console area to the windshield, utilizing the vertical space and visual field in a different dimension. This allows the display to be positioned within the driver's natural forward visual field, eliminating the need to shift gaze to the side or down while maintaining information visibility.
3Device complexity
If the display portion is positioned in the upper part of the center console, then the structural layout is simplified, but the driver must turn eyes from the driving visual field, increasing operational load
Solution Approach 1:
The display is moved from the horizontal plane of the dashboard to the vertical plane of the windshield, utilizing the forward visual field space. This dimensional change allows the display to be positioned where it does not require lateral or downward eye movement from the driving position, as the windshield naturally falls within the driver's forward gaze.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle user interface system including an operation device, a display device, and a control device, is provided. The operation device is positioned at a position where a driver operates, and inputting multiple operations. The display device displays a display image with using a windshield. The control device controls the display device to display multiple icons, which are selectable by operating the operation device. In a case where a selected icon, which has been selected among the multiple icons displayed by the display device, is distinguishably displayed, the control device controls the display device to display an operation display image and the selected icon. The operation display image indicates one of the multiple operations to which a processing is assigned among the multiple operations.