Vehicle Power Outlet Guidance for Fast Device Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicles face challenges in locating suitable electrical power outlets for powering or charging devices due to the presence of multiple outlets with varying configurations and power capabilities, which can be confusing for users.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle power outlet advisory system that includes a processor to detect user gestures or requests, identify the device's power requirements, and guide the user to the most suitable outlet by analyzing vehicle status and user location, providing visual or oral instructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electrical power outlets are provided in the vehicle with varying configurations and power capabilities, then the versatility and adaptability of the power system is improved, but the complexity of locating a suitable outlet increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system detects user gestures (e.g., pointing) to identify which outlet the user is interested in, then provides feedback by displaying device icons indicating compatibility. This closed-loop feedback mechanism resolves the contradiction by allowing multiple outlets to coexist while guiding users to suitable ones through real-time information feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary interface (display screen showing device icons) between the user and the multiple power outlets. This intermediary translates the complex information about outlet configurations and device compatibility into simple visual indicators, making it easy for users to locate suitable outlets without needing to understand the technical specifications.
2Measurement precision
If the system provides detailed guidance and analysis for outlet selection, then the precision of outlet matching is improved, but the time required for the process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-stores information about device power requirements and outlet configurations in a database. When a user points at an outlet, the system immediately queries and displays compatible devices without requiring real-time calculation or complex analysis, thus achieving high matching precision instantly without time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses visual copying of device icons on the display screen to represent compatibility information. Instead of presenting detailed technical specifications that would require careful reading and comparison, the system creates simplified visual copies (icons) that instantly convey whether a device is compatible with the selected outlet, achieving rapid and precise matching.
Data Source
AI summary
Vehicle power outlet advisory systems and methods are disclosed. An example method executed by a processor of a vehicle power outlet advisory system in a vehicle can include detecting a gesture made by an individual. The gesture may indicate that the individual is seeking assistance to power a device. The processor can determine a power consumption of the device based on identifying a type, a brand, or a model number of the device, and can then identify a power source in the vehicle that is compatible for powering the device. The processor may further identify a first power outlet in the vehicle that is coupled to the power source, followed by issuing instructions to the individual for locating the first power outlet.