Vehicle Wiper Intermittent Control via User Interface Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing windshield wiper systems lack effective user engagement control and feedback, leading to suboptimal operation in various weather conditions.

Innovation Solution

A method that detects user interface tapping and engagement to control wiper systems, allowing for customizable intermittent speed settings and storing preferences for future use, with a control system that includes a user interface, detection units, and a display for feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If existing wiper controls are used, then basic wiper operation is achieved, but user engagement control and feedback are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser engagement controlVSAvoidfeedback control
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback control by detecting user engagement with the wiper control interface and providing visual feedback through a display unit. The system monitors user interactions (such as sliding gestures) and displays corresponding visual indicators to confirm the selected wiper mode and settings, thereby resolving the information loss issue while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If intermittent wiper control is implemented, then time delay operation is achieved, but user customization and control precision are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintermittent wiper controlVSAvoidcontrol precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the wiper system adaptable through user-customizable intermittent settings. The control unit allows users to adjust the time delay and operating parameters based on detected user engagement, enabling the system to dynamically adapt to different weather conditions and user preferences while maintaining precise control through digital parameter adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If wiper system operation is automated, then operational efficiency is improved, but user control and adaptability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoiduser control
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by enabling the wiper system to automatically operate based on detected user preferences and environmental conditions. Once the user sets their preferred intermittent wiper parameters through the control interface, the system autonomously adjusts its operation without requiring continuous user input, thereby maintaining both operational efficiency and user control through the initial configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9969357B1Vehicle wiper intermittent control
Publication Date: 2018.05.15 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • US9969357B1 patent drawing
  • US9969357B1 patent drawing
  • US9969357B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods, systems, and vehicles are provided for controlling intermittent operation of windshield wiper systems for vehicles. In accordance with one embodiment, a control system for a vehicle windshield wiper system includes one or more detection units and a processor. The one or more detection units are coupled to a user interface disposed onboard the vehicle, and are configured to detect an amount of time pertaining to a position or engagement of a user interface for the wiper system. The processor is coupled to the one or more detection units, and is configured to at least facilitate updating a time step for intermittent operation for the wiper system based at least in part on the amount of time.