Vehicle Dynamics Control System with Dual-Input Dial Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle dynamics control systems are either overly complex with numerous separate controls or too inflexible, failing to provide a balance between flexibility and simplicity, making it difficult for drivers to adjust settings to suit various driving conditions effectively.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle dynamics control system featuring a dual-input device interface that independently adjusts powertrain and handling sub-systems, allowing drivers to select from multiple pre-defined modes that combine engine, suspension, and aerodynamic settings, enabling efficient dynamic mode selection without overwhelming the driver with numerous controls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If individual controls are provided for each adjustable dynamic feature, then the driver can select any combination of settings desired, but the number of controls proliferates making the interface complex and time-consuming to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual dynamic controls (throttle response, suspension stiffness, gearbox shift speed, etc.) into a single integrated dial control. This single control allows the driver to access all dynamic settings by rotating the dial to different positions, thereby reducing the number of separate controls from multiple individual buttons/knobs to one unified interface element.
Solution Approach 2:
The single dial control is designed to be multi-functional, serving as the universal interface for all vehicle dynamic adjustments. One control element handles throttle response, suspension, gearbox, and other dynamic features, making the control system universal rather than requiring separate dedicated controls for each function.
2Device complexity
If a single control with pre-set positions is used, then the control interface is simplified, but the settings become too inflexible for many driving situations
Solution Approach 1:
The dial control is designed with multiple discrete positions (at least three positions) that provide different dynamic settings. This allows the control to be dynamic rather than fixed, enabling the driver to select from multiple predetermined combinations of dynamic parameters depending on the driving situation, thus providing flexibility within a simplified interface.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate controls are provided for different dynamic features, then each control can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system becomes difficult to operate intuitively and safely
Solution Approach 1:
By merging all dynamic controls into a single dial, the system reduces cognitive load and improves intuitiveness. The driver interacts with one familiar rotary control rather than navigating multiple separate buttons and switches, making the system easier to operate intuitively and safely while still providing access to all dynamic customization options.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle having a dynamics control system, the vehicle comprising: a first set comprising multiple adjustable sub-systems that affect the performance of the vehicle's powertrain; a second set comprising multiple adjustable sub-systems that affect the vehicle's handling; a dynamics user interface including a first input device and a second input device; and a dynamics controller coupled to the user interface and configured to adjust the operation of the sub-systems of the first set in dependence on the first input device and to adjust the operation of the sub-systems of the second set in dependence on the second input device.