Vehicle Turn Indicator Timing Based on Driving Speed
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control devices for vehicle direction indicators do not adequately adjust the activation time based on the vehicle's travel situation, leading to inappropriate duration of indicator operation.
Innovation Solution
A control device that adjusts the activation time of direction indicators based on vehicle speed and speed changes, using a control unit to detect activation signals, acquire vehicle speed values, and adjust activation times accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the direction indicator is activated for a predetermined time or distance regardless of vehicle speed, then the control logic is simple, but the activation time becomes inappropriate (too long or too short) depending on the vehicle's travel situation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the direction indicator activation time variable rather than fixed. The control device dynamically adjusts the activation time based on real-time vehicle speed measurements. When the vehicle travels a longer distance at a given speed, the system extends the activation time proportionally, ensuring the indicator remains active for an appropriate duration adapted to the actual travel conditions rather than using a static predetermined time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of activation time based on the parameter of vehicle speed. By measuring the vehicle's speed and calculating the distance traveled during the indicator activation, the system adjusts the total activation time as a function of these parameters. This allows the activation duration to scale appropriately with the vehicle's motion characteristics, resolving the contradiction between simple control and appropriate timing.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the direction indicator activation time is extended to cover longer travel distances, then the indicator remains active longer, but this causes unnecessary activation in cases where the vehicle stops or travels very short distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring vehicle speed and calculating the actual distance traveled during direction indicator activation. The control device uses this feedback information to determine whether to maintain, extend, or terminate the indicator activation. When the vehicle stops or travels minimal distances, the feedback shows little to no distance accumulation, triggering early termination of activation and preventing unnecessary energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by activating the direction indicator only for the portion of time necessary to cover the actual distance traveled. Rather than using a fixed predetermined time that may be excessive, the system calculates the minimal required activation time based on the distance traveled at the measured speed, eliminating unnecessary extension and reducing energy waste.
3Device complexity
If the direction indicator is automatically canceled after a predetermined time, then the control mechanism is simple, but it does not adapt to varying vehicle speeds and travel situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static predetermined time cancellation mechanism into a dynamic adaptation system. By incorporating vehicle speed sensing and distance calculation, the control device automatically adjusts the cancellation timing based on actual travel conditions. The activation time becomes a dynamic parameter that scales with vehicle speed and distance traveled, providing adaptability without requiring complex manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the control system to self-adjust the direction indicator activation time based on vehicle operating conditions. The control device autonomously measures speed, calculates distance, and determines the appropriate activation duration without external input. This self-service capability allows the system to adapt to varying vehicle speeds and travel situations while maintaining relatively simple control logic.
Data Source
AI summary
A control device, configured to control activation of a direction indicator provided on a vehicle, detects a predetermined signal corresponding to a start of the activation of the direction indicator, acquires a value corresponding to a vehicle speed of the vehicle, activates, after determining that the value corresponds to a first vehicle speed and detecting the predetermined signal, the direction indicator until a first time elapses, and activates, when determining that the value corresponds to a second vehicle speed greater than the first vehicle speed, the direction indicator until a second time shorter than the first time elapses after the predetermined signal is detected.