Vehicle Control Element Haptics Using Magnetorheological Elastomer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle operating devices face challenges in achieving stable and low-wear actuation characteristics, particularly in implementing end stops and detent mechanisms without mechanical components.
Innovation Solution
The use of a magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) in conjunction with a coil to generate a magnetic field, allowing the MRE to transition between rest and activated states, thereby providing resistance during actuation and locking functions without mechanical components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If magnetorheological fluid is used to implement end stops and detent mechanisms, then mechanical components can be eliminated, but seals are required and wear occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the magnetorheological material from fluid to elastomer. This parameter change eliminates the need for seals while maintaining the ability to provide end stops and detent mechanisms through magnetic field activation. The elastomer form provides structural stability without requiring containment seals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical end stops and detent mechanisms with a magnetorheological elastomer actuated by magnetic fields. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear components while providing the same functional outcomes of positioning and detent effects.
2Stability of the object's composition
If magnetorheological elastomer is positioned to contact the operating element in the rest state, then stable actuation is achieved, but resistance to actuation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the magnetorheological elastomer away from the operating element in the rest state, allowing free actuation without resistance. When activated by a magnetic field, the elastomer dynamically moves to contact the operating element, providing stability and locking effect only when needed. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between stability and ease of operation.
3Reliability
If magnetorheological elastomer is used instead of fluid, then no seals are required, but installation precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetorheological elastomer acts as a flexible actuating element that can be positioned at a distance from the operating element. Its flexibility and magnetic actuation capability allow it to reach and contact the operating element when activated, reducing the need for precise initial positioning while eliminating seal 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 solution enables an easily mountable, stable, and low-wear operating device that provides distinct haptic feedback and locking functions, with minimal abrasion and no requirement for seals, as the MRE can be quickly and easily installed.
Implementation Method 1
When a magnetorheological fluid (MRF) is exposed to a magnetic field by energizing a coil, a change in viscosity is induced within the MRF
Implementation Method 2
The magnetorheological elastomer can, for example, comprise a material that expands when exposed to a magnetic field
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an operating device (105) for a vehicle (100). The operating device (105) comprises a movable operating element (110), a housing (115), a magnetorheological elastomer (120), and a coil (125). A first end (130) of the operating element (110) is mounted in the housing (115). The magnetorheological elastomer (120) is designed to cause a first actuation characteristic for actuating the operating element (110) in an idle state (135) and a second actuation characteristic for actuating in an activation state (300). The coil (125) is designed to generate a magnetic field designed to cause the magnetorheological elastomer (120) to transfer between the idle state (135) and the activation state (300).