Vehicle Rotary Control Interface With Distinct Haptic Function Cues
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing operator control systems for vehicles lack intuitive and differentiated haptic feedback for adjusting multiple vehicle functions, making it difficult for users to distinguish between various functions during operation.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable operator control apparatus with a base body, electronics unit, and rotation unit that provides distinct touch signals and rotation characteristics for different vehicle functions, allowing users to adjust multiple functions with varying haptic feedback based on the operator control section used.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single operator control device is used for multiple vehicle functions, then device complexity is reduced, but it becomes difficult for users to distinguish between various functions during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different rotation characteristics (such as different friction coefficients, spring constants, or detent forces) at different angular positions or for different operator control sections. This allows each section to have tailored haptic properties that provide distinctive feedback for specific functions, enabling users to distinguish between functions through tactile sensation while using a single unified control device.
2Ease of operation
If different rotation characteristics are provided for different functions, then function distinction is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamics by making the rotation characteristics adjustable or variable rather than fixed. The system can dynamically change friction coefficients, spring constants, or detent forces based on the selected function or operating conditions. This allows a single mechanism to provide multiple distinct rotation characteristics on demand, reducing the need for multiple separate mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes physical parameters such as friction coefficient, spring constant, or detent force to provide different rotation characteristics for different functions. By adjusting these parameters electronically or mechanically, the system can differentiate between functions through haptic feedback without requiring fundamentally different mechanical structures for each function.
3Ease of operation
If haptic feedback is provided for each function, then user experience is enhanced, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by providing haptic feedback only when needed - specifically when the operator interacts with a particular operator control section or when a function is selected. The system activates the appropriate rotation characteristics and haptic feedback mechanisms on-demand rather than continuously, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining enhanced user experience during interaction.
Data Source
AI summary
An operator control device for a vehicle may have a rotatable base body, an electronic unit, and a rotary unit. The rotatable base body may have a first operator control section for setting at least one first vehicle function which is assigned to the first operator control section, and a second operator control section for setting at least one second vehicle function which is assigned to the second operator control section. The electronic unit may be designed to make available a first contact signal which represents manual contact with or approaching of the first operator control section, and a second contact signal which represents manual contact with or approaching of the second operator control section. The rotary unit may permit a rotational movement of the base body.