External Controller for Vehicle Control via Onboard Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle control systems for disabled drivers require cumbersome mechanical connections, which are expensive to modify and interfere with non-disabled operation, necessitating a by-wire system that can be easily connected and disconnected from a vehicle controller.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control system featuring an onboard connector, a connector interface, and an external controller that can be unfastenably connected to facilitate operation by disabled drivers, allowing for hand-operated control of vehicle functions like acceleration, braking, and steering without mechanical links, and can be disconnected for normal operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mechanical connections are used between operator controls and vehicle controls, then reliable control signal transmission is achieved, but vehicle modification cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical connections with an electrical communication interface. The operator controls communicate with vehicle controls through electrical signals transmitted via the communication interface, eliminating the need for mechanical linkages between the operator controls and vehicle pedals. This substitution reduces vehicle modification complexity while maintaining control reliability through electrical signal transmission.
2Ease of operation
If permanent mechanical connections are installed for disabled driver operation, then accessibility is improved, but usability by non-disabled persons deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts between two operational modes: when the external controller is connected, the system enables disabled driver operation through the operator controls; when disconnected, the system reverts to standard operation for non-disabled persons. This dynamic configuration allows the vehicle to switch between accessibility modes and normal operation, satisfying both user groups without permanent mechanical modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The external controller is designed as a removable component that can be extracted from the vehicle when not needed. This allows the accessibility features to be taken out and stored, leaving the vehicle in its original configuration for normal operation. The operator controls interface can be connected or disconnected based on user needs, providing versatility without permanent modification.
3Adaptability or versatility
If custom mechanical control systems are built for disabled drivers, then specialized functionality is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operator controls are designed with a universal interface that can connect to standard vehicle communication ports. The external controller uses a communication interface compatible with existing vehicle systems, allowing the same device to provide disabled driver functionality across different vehicle models without requiring custom mechanical fabrication for each vehicle. This universal approach reduces manufacturing and installation costs.
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing custom mechanical control systems with an electrical communication-based interface, the patent eliminates the need for expensive custom mechanical fabrication, machining, and assembly. The external controller communicates with vehicle controls through electrical signals, which can be implemented using standard communication protocols and interfaces already present in modern vehicles, significantly reducing manufacturing and installation costs.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle control system for a vehicle having an onboard diagnostics connector and a connector interface connected to the onboard connector includes at least one external controller adapted for unfastenable connection to the connector interface; and at least one operator control connected to said at least one external controller.