Abstract: A multi-dimensional track pad is described that acts as human-machine interface (HMI). Inputs to the HMI can be made not only using the tradition two-dimensional (X-Y) inputs of a track pad, but also a third dimension, force, and even a fourth dimension, time. Tactile or audible feedback to the inputs can be provided. Methods of using the HMI to control a system are described as well as a track pad system that utilizes the HMI in communication with a processor.

Abstract: Human machine interfaces that increase selectability and reduce distractibility of an operator controlling a system in a distracted operating environment are disclosed. A method can include receiving a first gesture on a pressure sensitive input device, and receiving a second gesture in temporal proximity to the first gesture on the pressure sensitive input device. The first and second gestures can be characterized by discretized time and pressure metrics. Additionally, the method can include selecting a control message from a plurality of control messages based on a combination of the first and the second gestures, and sending the selected control message to the system. A total number of control messages can be related to a number of each of the discretized time and pressure metrics for the first and second gestures. Additionally, the size of the discretized time and pressure metrics can be tuned to reduce distraction of the operator.

Abstract: An example method for providing an adaptive human machine interface that increases selectability and reduces distractibility of an operator controlling a system in a distracted operating environment is provided. The method can include receiving a combination of gestures on a pressure sensitive interface device. The combination can include at least two gestures received in temporal proximity, and each of the gestures can be characterized by a discretized pressure metric having a plurality of value ranges and a discretized time metric. The method can include selecting a control message from a plurality of control messages based on the combination of gestures and sending the selected control message to the system. The sizes of each of the value ranges for the discretized pressure metric and discretized time metric can be tuned to reduce distraction of the operator. The value ranges can be adjustable according to at least one characteristic of the operator.

Abstract: Steering wheel hand detection systems are disclosed herein. The systems can optionally be used with a system for identifying the presence and/or location of a driver's hands on the steering wheel. The systems include a sensor mat including a plurality of sensor loops arranged in the steering wheel to achieve multiple sensing zones. Because the systems include a sensor mat including a plurality of sensor loops, the systems can be implemented in steering wheels having different designs. The systems can also be implemented to achieve different numbers and/or types (e.g., tap detection, swipe detection, grip detection, etc.) of sensing zones. Additionally, the systems can be implemented in a way that reduces the likelihood of crosstalk due to wire routing.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a steering apparatus for a vehicle having a including a light element providing indication and warning light signals to the user of the vehicle. The light element can be associated with a PCB mounted to the steering wheel grip for controlling the operation of the light element. The PCB may be thermally coupled to a heat exchange component such that heat from the light element is transferred from the PCB to the steering wheel grip.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a steering apparatus for a vehicle having a including a light element providing indication and warning light signals to the user of the vehicle. The light element can be associated with a PCB mounted to the steering wheel grip for controlling the operation of the light element. The PCB may be thermally coupled to a heat exchange component such that heat from the light element is transferred from the PCB to the steering wheel grip.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a steering apparatus for a vehicle having a including a light element providing indication and warning light signals to the user of the vehicle. The light element can be associated with a PCB mounted to the steering wheel grip for controlling the operation of the light element.

Abstract: A steering system for allowing an operator to control the direction of travel of a vehicle propelled on wheels. The steering system comprises a steering input device configured to include a handle pivotally coupled to a linkage assembly configured to swivel, wherein the handle is configured to move in the fore and aft direction, wherein the steering input device generates input data based on the position of the linkage assembly and/or the handle. The steering system further comprises a communication device to communicate the input data received by the steering input device to a lower steering system, wherein the lower steering system is configured to receive the input data from the steering input device and control the direction of the wheels based on the input data received.

Abstract: A steering system for allowing an operator to control the direction of travel of a vehicle propelled on wheels. The steering system comprises a steering input device configured to include a handle pivotally coupled to a linkage assembly configured to swivel, wherein the handle is configured to move in the fore and aft direction, wherein the steering input device generates input data based on the position of the linkage assembly and/or the handle. The steering system further comprises a communication device to communicate the input data received by the steering input device to a lower steering system, wherein the lower steering system is configured to receive the input data from the steering input device and control the direction of the wheels based on the input data received.

Abstract: An airbag module includes a retainer, diffuser, inflatable airbag, and an inflator to inflate the airbag. The diffuser is configured to disperse inflation gas from the inflator into the inflatable airbag. The retainer and/or diffuser comprise a glass-filled polymer material. The retainer includes a projection extending from a base wall. The projection couples to a hole in the diffuser flange and prevents the diffuser from rotating relative to the retainer. The inflator is coupled to the retainer by trapping an inflator flange under an overhang in a retainer cavity.

Abstract: An airbag assembly for use within a vehicle, which includes an airbag; an inflator; and an airbag housing. The airbag housing includes a cavity for storing the airbag and is configured to be mounted in the vehicle. The cavity includes a plurality of fins, which are configured to direct inflation gas and to conduct heat from the inflation gas to the fins. The housing further includes a plurality of walls and a base that form a frame structure surrounding the cavity and an opening through which the airbag deploys into the vehicle. The airbag is configured to be deployed by inflation gas provided by the housing inflator, and configured to provide protection to an occupant. The inflator is mounted in and coupled to the housing.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a knee airbag for a vehicle with a reinforcement configured to form a seal with an inflator. The knee airbag that includes an opening, an inflator inserted within the opening of the knee airbag, and a reinforcement formed around the opening of the airbag, wherein the reinforcement is configured to form a seal with the inflator. Such an arrangement may advantageously minimize or prevent the release of inflation gas through the opening for the inflator.

Abstract: An airbag module includes a retainer, diffuser, inflatable airbag, and an inflator to inflate the airbag. The diffuser is configured to disperse inflation gas from the inflator into the inflatable airbag. The retainer and/or diffuser comprise a glass-filled polymer material. The retainer includes a projection extending from a base wall. The projection couples to a hole in the diffuser flange and prevents the diffuser from rotating relative to the retainer. The inflator is coupled to the retainer by trapping an inflator flange under an overhang in a retainer cavity.

Abstract: An airbag module comprises an airbag cushion, a cover, an inflator to inflate the airbag cushion, a retaining ring, and an integrated one-piece retainer and diffuser component. The integrated retainer and diffuser component couples to the cover to form a space for the airbag cushion in the airbag module. The integrated retainer and diffuser component disperses inflation gas from the inflator into the airbag cushion. The integrated retainer and diffuser component comprises a glass filled plastic material.