Vehicle Function Control Unit with Integrated Time Configuration Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems for configuring functions like auxiliary heaters are cumbersome and user-unfriendly due to complex menu structures and spatial separation of control units, making it difficult for drivers to find and operate time settings efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A device with an operating element on the function-specific control unit allows direct access to a user interface for configuring timing parameters on a multifunctional screen, eliminating the need to navigate through extensive menus, and enabling intuitive operation by arranging the control element in spatial association with the function's operating unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If time configuration is integrated into the function-specific control unit, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the time configuration control element directly with the function-specific control unit (e.g., climate control unit), merging what were previously separate components into a single integrated unit. This allows users to access time settings without navigating through menu structures, directly improving ease of operation while the integration manages complexity through unified design
2Device complexity
If time configuration is accessed through central information system menu, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the time configuration functionality from the central information system menu structure and places it directly on the function-specific control unit. This extraction eliminates the need to navigate through multiple menu levels in the central system, significantly reducing the time required to access and configure time settings
3Ease of operation
If control element is placed on function-specific control unit, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the control element with the existing function-specific control unit, the patent leverages the already-established manufacturing processes and precision standards for the control unit itself. This approach avoids introducing new, separate components that would require additional manufacturing precision, while still achieving the goal of improved ease of operation
Data Source
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AI summary
A device (110) for time-controlling a function of a commercial vehicle at a driver's workstation (100) is described. The device comprises an operating unit (120) for operating the function at the driver's workstation; and a screen (130) for configuring the time control of the function. A control element (122) is arranged on the operating unit (120), the actuation of which displays a user interface (132) on the screen (130) for configuring the time control of the function.