Vehicle information system with steering wheel controller
US7680574B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 30, 2005 |
| Grant date | Mar 16, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 14, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60K2360/782
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An information system for a vehicle includes a computer for handling informational data corresponding to operation of the vehicle. A primary display is connected to the computer in a position to be viewed by a driver of the vehicle for presenting the informational data in multiple, sequential, interactive menu screens. A manual controller mounted on the steering wheel allows input to the computer and manipulation of the primary display through the menu screens. The controller includes a scroll wheel which is oriented so that its rotational axis is parallel to the steering axis. The controller includes a central push button for activating a particular selection highlighted on the primary display. A plurality of category selector buttons operate as mode switches for activating various vehicle system subjects through the information system. The scroll wheel and push button selectors establish an interface for the driver which can be operated intuitively, without taking eyes off the road or releasing the driver's grip of the steering wheel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.