Vehicle Input Module With Dynamic Haptic Force Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive-by-wire systems lack dynamic force feedback, are aesthetically and spacely inefficient due to mechanical interfaces, and require complex physical modifications for user-specific adjustments, limiting adaptability and driving dynamics feedback.
Innovation Solution
A modular control system with an integrated input module housing sensors, electronic circuits, and force feedback elements, where dynamic force feedback is calculated electronically, allowing user-specific adjustments via a data bus and redundant interfaces for enhanced adaptability and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical feedback systems (spring/damper) are used, then force feedback is provided to the driver, but the feedback cannot be configured dynamically and physical modification is required for adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical spring/damper feedback system with an electrical actuator system controlled by electronic circuits. The feedback force is generated electromechanically rather than purely mechanically, allowing dynamic adjustment through electrical signals instead of physical modifications. The actuator receives control signals from the electronic circuit based on sensor inputs, enabling flexible configuration of feedback characteristics without mechanical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic feedback configuration by making the feedback force adjustable in real-time based on driving conditions. The electronic circuit processes sensor signals and dynamically adjusts the actuator output to provide speed-dependent, position-dependent, and force-dependent feedback. This allows the feedback characteristics to change dynamically during operation rather than being fixed mechanically.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical interface is provided for interchangeable input units, then adaptability to different users is improved, but space requirements and aesthetics are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal mounting structure that can accommodate different types of input units (steering wheel, joystick, lever, pedal) without requiring separate mechanical interfaces for each type. The single mounting structure integrates multiple functions, allowing any input unit to be mounted using the same interface, thereby reducing the overall space requirement while maintaining adaptability to different user preferences and physical abilities.
3Measurement precision
If drive-by-wire system without mechanical connection is used, then control precision is improved, but force feedback capability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an electrical actuator as an intermediary between the electronic control system and the input unit. This actuator serves as a mediator that converts electrical control signals into mechanical force feedback on the input unit. The sensor detects the input unit position, the electronic circuit processes the signal, and the actuator applies the appropriate feedback force, thus bridging the gap between the wireless control system and the need for tactile feedback.
Data Source
AI summary
An input module, able to be retrofitted in a vehicle, for controlling a vehicle, having a haptic input element, at least one sensor, at least one electronic circuit that is able to determine a sensor signal, at least one force feedback element, and a housing having at least one electrical interface. The sensor, the electronic circuit and the force feedback element are accommodated completely in the housing and the input element is accommodated partially in the housing. The force feedback is calculated in the electronic circuit and is able to be adjusted dynamically and adapted to a specific the driver. The invention also relates to a modular control system having the input module cited above, a data bus and at least one central distributor module.