Intermittent Wiper Knob Control Using Learned Resistance Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing wiper unit controllers face errors in recognizing the rotational position of the intermittent wipe cycle adjustment knob due to variations in the maximum resistance value of the variable resistor, especially under temperature changes, leading to inaccurate wiping cycles.
Innovation Solution
A wiper unit controller with a computer system that detects the resistance value, stores a maximum resistance value, renews it when necessary, and sets the intermittent wipe cycle based on the ratio of detected resistance values, incorporating a time-based mechanism to ensure accurate recognition and correction of the rotational position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the maximum resistance value of the variable resistor is used to determine the intermittent wipe cycle, then the wipe cycle can be set according to the rotational position of the knob, but the large tolerance (±30%) causes the maximum resistance value to vary between different variable resistors, leading to recognition errors
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs preliminary learning of the maximum resistance value during the initial intermittent wipe mode operation. The learning process accumulates resistance values over a predetermined period before the intermittent wipe mode is activated, storing the learned maximum resistance value in memory for subsequent accurate rotational position recognition.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller continuously monitors the resistance value during intermittent wipe mode operation and compares it with the learned maximum resistance value. This feedback mechanism enables the controller to accurately determine the rotational position of the knob by calculating the ratio between the current resistance value and the learned maximum resistance value, compensating for manufacturing tolerances.
2Reliability
If the controller renews the maximum resistance value when a higher value is detected, then the maximum resistance value can be updated to match the actual variable resistor, but under low temperature conditions the resistance value temporarily exceeds the actual maximum, causing erroneous renewal and subsequent recognition errors
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs preliminary learning of the maximum resistance value during the initial intermittent wipe mode operation. The learning process accumulates resistance values over a predetermined period before the intermittent wipe mode is activated, storing the learned maximum resistance value in memory for subsequent accurate rotational position recognition.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller implements a buffer mechanism by requiring the resistance value to exceed the current maximum resistance value by a predetermined threshold before renewing the learned maximum resistance value. This cushioning approach prevents erroneous renewal due to temporary fluctuations caused by temperature changes or noise, ensuring reliable updates only when genuinely higher resistance values are detected.
3Ease of manufacture
If the controller stores a fixed initial maximum resistance value, then the system can start operation, but the fixed value does not account for manufacturing variations, causing recognition errors that require continuous renewal
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs preliminary learning of the maximum resistance value during the initial intermittent wipe mode operation. The learning process accumulates resistance values over a predetermined period before the intermittent wipe mode is activated, storing the learned maximum resistance value in memory for subsequent accurate rotational position recognition.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller automatically learns and updates the maximum resistance value through normal operation without requiring manual calibration or external intervention. The system self-adjusts by monitoring resistance values during intermittent wipe mode and autonomously renewing the learned maximum resistance value when appropriate conditions are met.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution ensures accurate recognition of the rotational position of the knob, leading to consistent and correct intermittent wiping cycles, even across temperature variations, thereby improving the reliability of the wiper unit's operation.
Implementation Method 1
a variable resistor (volume) is used to reflect the rotational position of the knob in the intermittent wipe cycle. That is, when the knob is rotated during the intermittent wipe mode, the resistance value of the variable resistor varies accordingly.
Implementation Method 2
The fixed resistor 111 and the variable resistor 112 are connected in series between positive and negative terminals of a constant voltage power supply. The fixed resistor 111 and the variable resistor 112 divide the voltage output from the constant voltage power supply to generate divided voltage V, which is input to a controller 120.
Data Source
AI summary
A wiper unit controller for performing wiping at an accurate intermittent wipe cycle. The controller stores a maximum resistance value of a variable resistor having a resistance value that varies in accordance with the intermittent wipe cycle. When a reference time elapses after calculating a resistance value that exceeds the stored maximum resistance value, a computer renews the maximum resistance value with a new maximum resistance value.