Reactive Environment Outlet

Abstract

This was an explorative project which investigated the use and implementation of smart materials in an automotive context for Toyota Motors Europe. The smart materials in this context were shape memory materials which possess the ability to change their shape under appropriate stimulus. The idea of the project was to understand how the materials behaved and to find out if this behavior could be used in some way to help the user of a Toyota autonomous car. To be able to involve the users systematically and to solve their needs, a context driven design approach called the Vision in Product Design (VIP) was adopted.

Using the VIP process as a guideline and modifying it to incorporate the material technology aspect of the project, a final product concept was generated. This product not only solved the needs of the user in an autonomous car but also made efficient use of the shape memory materials.

Reactive Environment Outlets (REOs) are movable outlets designed for Toyota autonomous cars which provide different environments to the user, specific to their location. REOs are actuated by shape memory muscle wires which possess the capability of contracting when heated. A simple and compact mechanism consisting of a spherical joint and muscle wires, enables the outlet to rotate in all directions.

REOs would play a crucial role in future autonomous cars by providing the required environment conditions as the passenger performs different activities and takes different seating positions. The styling of the outlet was designed specifically for the Toyota Concept-i.