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Improvements in the Automotive Industry 2/3: 4D & 5D Steering Wheels!
Multiple times a year we are witnessing amazing advancements in automotive design and engineering from small start-ups to the great giants competing for all of the consumers' dreams and needs. As a result, cars are projected to become smarter, safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible. We are also doing great in the department of aesthetics, as we have a surplus of astonishing exteriors and stylish interiors, offering all styles like retro, modern, and futuristic. It appears that now humanity has all of the checkboxes ticked in the list of automotive achievements!
While that may be true, I think there is a decline in innovation when it comes to the most prominent and used attribute of any vehicle —its steering wheel.
We have had 3-dimensionally adjustable steering wheels since the early 1980s, and we also had the option to have them heated, covered in Alcantara, have flat bottoms, lights, indicators or even replaced by a jet-like joystick all together like the infamous 1992 Saab 9000 prototype (see also Mercedes-Benz Vario, Oldsmobile Incas and Ford’s Wrist-Twist wheels). I think the 4th and 5th options are long overdue.
I Present to You the 4- and 5-dimensional Steering Wheel!
4th Dimension
The 4th dimension indicates the ability to expand or contract the diameter of the wheel. With a single lever or an electronic switch, the driver first unlocks the hinges when parked, then with both hands on the grips he presses forward to expand and backward to contract the wheel. It is then locked again in place before driving.
5th Dimension
This refers to the expansion of the grips. The thickness of the grips could be enlarged either by a pneumatic airbag (like the ones used in seats for lumbar support) or a mechanical system, similar to a centrifugal clutch…
