Vehicle Driving Mode Control Interface with Hierarchical Sub-Mode Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle control systems are complex and difficult for drivers to navigate, particularly when switching between driving modes and settings, which can compromise safety and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A system with input means, such as soft keys, that allows drivers to select and control driving modes and settings intuitively by activating sub-modes based on ambient conditions, using a circular arrangement of soft keys for mode changes and vertical keys for sub-mode changes, providing tactile feedback and minimizing the need to search for separate controls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple dedicated buttons with fixed symbols are located on the steering wheel, then the driver can access control functions without removing hands from the wheel, but the interface becomes complex and difficult to remember for non-regular drivers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by implementing a single input means (steering wheel button) that can access multiple driving modes (economic, sport, comfort) and their associated sub-modes. Instead of having separate dedicated buttons for each function, one universal input means handles all mode selections, thereby reducing the number of physical buttons while maintaining comprehensive control access.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts the displayed information and available options based on the currently active driving mode. The display unit shows mode-specific sub-modes and settings, changing its content according to the selected driving mode. This dynamic presentation reduces cognitive load by showing only relevant options at each stage, effectively managing interface complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If extensive control options and sub-modes are provided for each driving mode, then the system offers comprehensive vehicle control, but the driver faces difficulty navigating and setting parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into hierarchical levels: driving modes (top level), sub-modes (second level), and specific settings (third level). The control unit manages this segmentation by presenting one level at a time through the display unit and input means. This segmented approach allows comprehensive control options to be organized in a manageable structure, reducing navigation difficulty while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically detecting ambient conditions and pre-selecting appropriate driving modes or sub-modes. The control unit can activate certain sub-modes based on detected conditions before the driver even interacts with the input means, reducing the number of decisions the driver must make and simplifying the navigation process.
3Extent of automation
If the system automatically activates sub-modes based on ambient conditions, then the vehicle responds intelligently to environment, but the driver may not be aware of or able to control the settings
Solution Approach 1:
The display unit provides continuous feedback to the driver about the currently active driving mode and sub-mode. When the control unit automatically activates a sub-mode based on ambient conditions, the display unit immediately shows this information to the driver. This feedback mechanism ensures the driver is always aware of the system's automatic actions and can understand what settings are currently active.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting ambient conditions and activating appropriate sub-modes without requiring driver intervention. The control unit monitors environmental parameters and autonomously selects optimal driving modes, reducing the burden on the driver while maintaining full controllability through the input means when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for controlling driving modes of a vehicle having a driver, wherein each of said driving modes is adapted to control a behaviour of said vehicle during operation of the vehicle in said driving mode, each of said driving modes being associated with a set of driving sub-modes, wherein each driving sub-mode is adapted to be activated by the vehicle in response to ambient circumstances. One of said driving modes is associated with a first and a second driving sub-mode, said first and second driving sub-modes being accompanied with a first and a second driver controlled setting respectively. The system further comprises input means for selection between said driving modes and for controlling said driver controlled settings when applicable, wherein said first and second driver controlled settings are adapted to be manually set by the driver through said input means only upon activation of the accompanying driving sub-mode by the vehicle.