Vehicle Multi-Function Switch With Dynamic Function Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-functional switches for vehicles require separate manufacturing of new switches when vehicle specifications change, leading to increased manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional switch that includes a communication unit to receive specification codes from a diagnostic server and specification information from an electronic control unit, allowing the control unit to dynamically display images corresponding to vehicle functions without pre-engraving.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If functions are engraved or printed on the multi-functional switch at vehicle development stage, then the switch provides stable and reliable function indication, but a new switch must be manufactured when vehicle specifications change, increasing manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static engraved/printing functions to dynamic displayable functions. The switch body includes a display unit that can change its displayed functions based on vehicle specifications received from the diagnostic server, allowing the same physical switch to adapt to different vehicle configurations without remanufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of function indication from fixed physical engravings to variable digital displays. By receiving specification codes and dynamically configuring which functions are displayed on the switch, the system adapts to different vehicle specifications while using the same switch hardware, thereby reducing manufacturing costs
2Adaptability or versatility
If a new multi-functional switch is manufactured when vehicle specifications change, then the switch accurately reflects the current vehicle configuration, but the vehicle manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the switch body universal by enabling it to perform multiple function indication roles through dynamic display. A single switch design can indicate different functions (wiper, lighting, horn, etc.) depending on the vehicle specification code received, eliminating the need to manufacture different switch variants for different vehicle configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses digital copying of function information instead of physical reproduction. Rather than manufacturing new physical switches with engraved functions, the system receives specification codes and displays the appropriate function set on the display unit, creating a virtual copy of the required configuration without physical manufacturing
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-functional switch for a vehicle includes a communication unit configured to receive a specification code for electronic devices determined according to a vehicle identification number of the vehicle by communicating with a diagnostic server. The communication unit is also configured to receive specification information for checking whether the electronic devices are present in the vehicle by communicating with an electronic control unit inside the vehicle. The multi-functional switch also includes a storage unit configured to store the specification code received from the diagnostic server. The multi-functional switch additionally includes a display unit and a control unit. The control unit is configured to control the display unit to display images corresponding to functions of the electronic devices based on the specification code and the specification information received through the communication unit.