Vehicle Sunroof Transparency Control With Shifted Switch Sequencing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sunroof control systems do not effectively manage transparency for all occupants, especially in varying solar radiation conditions, and face challenges with limited space for control elements.
Innovation Solution
A method for controlling a set of electrically controlled transmission switch elements in a sunroof, where a small number of peripheral switch elements can control multiple switch elements in a shift-like sequence, allowing for both directional and unified control, and enabling subdivision of a pane into subsets for separate or unified control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple transmission switch elements are controlled individually, then each element can be precisely controlled, but the number of control elements increases and space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The peripheral switch elements are designed to perform multiple functions: they can control their adjacent transmission switch elements individually and also control multiple transmission switch elements simultaneously through shift-like sequencing. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of control elements needed while maintaining precise control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control method uses shift-like sequencing where the state of peripheral switch elements is copied and propagated to multiple transmission switch elements in a sequential manner. This allows a single peripheral switch element to control multiple transmission switch elements without requiring separate control elements for each transmission element.
2Device complexity
If all transmission switch elements are controlled uniformly, then control is simplified, but individual occupancy needs cannot be addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The sunroof pane is divided into multiple transmission switch elements that can be controlled independently or in groups. Peripheral switch elements can activate specific segments (transmission switch elements) based on occupancy detection, allowing different zones to have different transparency states to meet individual occupancy needs.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the sunroof can have different transparency properties simultaneously. The system allows certain transmission switch elements to be opaque while others remain transparent, creating local quality variations that adapt to specific occupancy patterns and solar radiation conditions in different vehicle zones.
3Area of stationary object
If peripheral switch elements control adjacent transmission switch elements selectively, then space efficiency is improved, but control logic complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system uses periodic shift-like sequencing where the state activation propagates through transmission switch elements in a systematic sequence. This periodic pattern simplifies the control logic by using predictable, repeating sequences rather than complex arbitrary control patterns, making the system easier to implement despite the selective control requirements.
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
This method allows for flexible and space-efficient control of transparency, ensuring all occupants can benefit from optimal light conditions, with the ability to control multiple elements with a minimal number of switch elements and allowing for separate or unified control of subsets.
Implementation Method 1
electrically controlled transmission switch elements
Data Source
AI summary
A method controls a plurality of assigned electrically controlled transmission switch elements of a first set in a vehicle sunroof.