Stowable Steering Wheel Support Arm for Cabin Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle systems lack a seamless transition between autonomous and manual modes, particularly in terms of user interface management, which restricts occupant mobility and efficiency in passenger cabins.
Innovation Solution
A stowable user interface system that includes a steering wheel support arm movable between extended and retracted positions, controlled by a processor and memory to switch between autonomous, semi-autonomous, and manual modes based on sensor inputs, allowing for increased cabin mobility by stowing the steering wheel when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the steering wheel is always accessible in the cabin, then manual control capability is maintained, but occupant mobility and cabin space are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The steering wheel is extracted from the fixed cabin position and mounted on a support arm that can be removed or stowed away. This allows the steering wheel to be taken out of the way when manual control is not needed, freeing up cabin space while maintaining accessibility when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering wheel support arm is designed to be dynamically adjustable between extended and retracted positions. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt between providing manual control access and maximizing cabin space based on operational mode.
2Ease of operation
If the steering wheel support arm is always extended for manual control, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support arm mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the steering wheel, enables adjustment between extended and retracted positions, and can be integrated with lock mechanisms. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and justifies the added complexity through operational versatility.
3Ease of operation
If the panel is always in open position for armrest access, then ease of operation is improved, but security and contamination protection are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The panel is designed to be dynamically movable between closed and open positions rather than being fixed. This allows the system to provide protection when the armrest cavity is not in use while enabling easy access when needed, balancing security with operational convenience.
Data Source
AI summary
A stowable user interface system includes an armrest. The stowable user interface system includes a steering wheel support arm supported by the armrest and movable between an extended position outside the armrest and a retracted position inside the armrest. The stowable user interface system permits an operator of a vehicle to control a steering system of the vehicle when the steering wheel support arm in the extended position. The stowable user interface system stows the steering wheel support arm in the retracted position.