Multifunction control system
US7373229B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 29, 2005 |
| Grant date | May 13, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 21, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F3/0362
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A control system for a vehicle with a plurality of selectively variable characteristics includes an input member and a generally cylindrical wheel. The input member is manipulable to cause a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation. In the first mode of operation, the wheel is pivotable to cause a first submode of operation and to cause a second submode of operation. In the second mode of operation, the wheel is pivotable to cause a third submode of operation to cause a fourth submode of operation. Rotating the wheel in each of the submodes causes a variation in a respective variable characteristic. The control system thus enables a single finger wheel to control multiple characteristics or multiple vehicle systems, which enables a corresponding reduction in the quantity of switches and other control input devices in a vehicle passenger compartment.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.