Automotive

Modern operating systems in vehicles usually use touch displays for communication with the vehicle. Added value can be provided by haptic switches and sensors that are located under soft surfaces and integrated in the armrests, for example.


Based on magnetorheological elastomers or fluids, "soft" and noiseless actuators can be realised that provide clearly perceptible feedback.

Dielectric elastomer sensors can be used as occupancy and weight sensors in seating surfaces and offer added value due to their high elasticity.
 

Haptic Controls

© K. Dobberke for Fraunhofer ISC
Center armrest with integrated controls.

Controls are becoming increasingly important for the variety of functions that can be accessed today. Meanwhile, the trend is away from classical controls such as e.g. switches to infinitely controllable functional elements that give the user but rarely feedback on the activation of the function.

 

Haptic control elements

Gesture Control

© Isringhausen
Truck seat with gesture control.

To achieve optimum comfort, the ergonomically correct design and shape of the seat cushions is of great importance. Numerous adjustment and comfort functions make it possible for the driver to adapt the seating position as well as parts of the contouring to his individual needs and physical conditions.

 

Gesture control

 

Operating Sensors

© K. Selsam, Fraunhofer ISC
Steering wheel with integrated controls.

Dielectric or capacitive elastomer pressure sensors can be used not only for pressure measurement, but also for the fulfillment of operating functions.

 

Operating sensors

Seat Sensors

© Fraunhofer ISC
Seat sensors.

Due to their soft consistency and flexibility, dielectric or capacitive elastomer pressure sensors can be advantageously integrated into seat cushions. With an arrangement of several sensors on the seat, so the pressure distribution of a seated person can be detected.

 

Seat sensors