Vehicle Ride Mode Toggling via Start Switch and RPM Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicles require a dedicated switch and additional circuit for ride mode selection, which increases cost, assembly time, and maintenance, while also posing safety risks due to the need to halt or decelerate for mode changes.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a start switch, RPM sensor, and control unit to toggle between ride modes based on engine speed, allowing ride mode selection without a dedicated switch, using existing components like the speedometer controller and ECU to control engine operation and display ride modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated switch is installed for ride mode selection, then ride mode selection capability is provided, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The existing start switch is made multi-functional by programming it to serve both its original starting function and ride mode selection function. The control unit detects different pressing patterns (duration, frequency) of the start switch to differentiate between starting the vehicle and selecting ride modes, thereby eliminating the need for a dedicated switch.
Solution Approach 2:
The functionality of ride mode selection is merged with the existing start switch. The control unit combines the detection of start switch signals with engine speed detection from the RPM sensor to determine when ride mode selection is requested and to execute the mode change, consolidating multiple functions into existing components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated switch and circuit are installed for ride mode selection, then ride mode selection is enabled, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The start switch is programmed to perform multiple functions including vehicle starting and ride mode selection. By utilizing the existing switch and adding software-based detection logic in the control unit, the system avoids the cost of manufacturing and installing additional hardware components while maintaining full ride mode selection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of creating a new dedicated switch, the system uses the existing start switch's signal pattern as a template for ride mode selection. The control unit copies the detection methodology used for start switch activation and applies it to recognize ride mode selection intent through different pressing patterns, eliminating the need for duplicate hardware.
3Ease of operation
If ride mode selection is allowed at higher vehicle speed, then rider convenience is improved, but safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit performs preliminary checking of engine speed before allowing ride mode selection. By detecting the current engine RPM and comparing it against a predetermined threshold, the system proactively prevents mode changes when the vehicle is moving at high speeds, thereby eliminating safety risks before they can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit continuously monitors engine speed via the RPM sensor and uses this feedback to dynamically control whether ride mode selection is permitted. When engine speed exceeds the predetermined threshold, the control unit blocks ride mode selection signals; when below the threshold, it allows selection, creating a safety-dependent feedback control mechanism.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If ride mode selection requires vehicle to halt or decelerate, then safety is improved, but rider convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit checks engine speed before processing ride mode selection requests. By performing this preliminary safety check, the system ensures that mode changes only occur when the vehicle is stationary or moving at low speeds, maintaining safety without requiring the rider to deliberately halt or decelerate the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses real-time feedback from the RPM sensor to dynamically enable or disable ride mode selection based on current vehicle speed conditions. This feedback mechanism automatically manages the safety-convenience tradeoff by allowing mode selection only when engine speed is below the threshold, eliminating the need for rider intervention to slow down.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention is directed to a system (100) for toggling between ride modes of a vehicle. The system (100) includes: a start switch (110) to generate a ride mode selection signal; an RPM sensor (120) for measuring speed of an Internal Combustion (IC) engine (130); and a control unit (140) which is coupled with the start switch (110) and the RPM sensor (120). The control unit (140) is configured to: receive the ride mode selection signal from the start switch (110); receive the speed of the engine from the RPM sensor (120); compare the speed of the engine with a predetermined speed of the engine; and control change in ride mode of the vehicle based on the ride mode selection signal if the speed of the engine is greater than the predetermined speed of the engine, thereby allowing the vehicle to toggle between ride modes.