Rotary steering system

Abstract

A rotary steering system is disclosed herein. An example vehicle steering system includes an input gear fixed to one end of an input shaft; a first intermediate gear fixed to a first pinion gear, the first intermediate gear being engaged with the input gear; a second intermediate gear fixed to a second pinion gear, the second pinion gear engaged with the first intermediate gear or the third intermediate gear; a motor fixed to a third pinion gear, the third pinion gear engaged with the second intermediate gear, the motor for rotating the first intermediate gear and the first pinion gear; a third gear fixed to a shaft, the third gear engaged with the first pinion gear, the third gear and the shaft to rotate with rotation of the first intermediate gear; and a steering rocker arm coupled to the shaft, the steering rocker arm for coupling to a drag link to rotate a wheel of a vehicle when the shaft is rotated.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to steering systems, and more particularly to rotary steering systems. Background Art

[0002] Known vehicles typically include a mechanical linkage connecting the vehicle's front wheels to a steering wheel, allowing the driver to adjust the orientation of the front wheels by rotating the steering wheel. For example, many known steering systems include a rack and pinion that converts the rotational motion of the steering wheel into linear actuation or movement of a pull rod and / or tie rods connected to the front wheels. When the steering wheel is rotated, the pull rod and / or tie rods change the angular orientation of the wheels and steer the vehicle.

[0003] In recent years, trucks have utilized hydraulically assisted recirculating ball (RCB) steering systems. The hydraulic assist of the RCB steering system is provided by a pump that delivers hydraulic steering fluid to the RCB system. In some embodiments, an electronic torque overlay mechanism is used to provide electric steering feel to the hydraulic system. Summary of the Invention

[0004] An example rotary steering system is disclosed herein. An example vehicle steering system includes an input gear secured to one end of an input shaft. A first intermediate gear is secured to a first pinion. The first intermediate gear engages with the input gear. A second intermediate gear is secured to a second pinion. The second pinion engages with the first intermediate gear or a third intermediate gear. A motor is secured to a third pinion. The third pinion engages with the second intermediate gear. The motor rotates the first intermediate gear and the first pinion. A third gear is secured to a shaft. The third gear engages with the first pinion. The third gear and the shaft rotate in response to rotation of the first intermediate gear. A pitman arm is coupled to the shaft. The pitman arm is coupled to a tie rod to rotate the vehicle's wheels when the shaft rotates.

[0005] An example vehicle steering system includes an input shaft including an input gear. A first gear assembly includes a first intermediate gear fixed to a first pinion. The first intermediate gear engages with the input gear. A second gear assembly includes a second intermediate gear fixed to a second pinion. The second pinion engages with the first intermediate gear or a third intermediate gear. An output shaft includes a third gear engaged with the first pinion. A motor is fixed to a third pinion. The third pinion engages with the second intermediate gear. The motor is configured to provide torque to rotate the input shaft, the first gear assembly, the second gear assembly, and the output shaft. A pitman arm is coupled to the output shaft. The pitman arm is configured to couple to a tie rod to rotate the vehicle's wheels when the output shaft rotates.

[0006] An example apparatus includes an input shaft including an input gear. A first gear set includes a first intermediate gear and a first pinion. The first intermediate gear is engaged with the input gear. A second gear set includes a second intermediate gear fixed to a second pinion. The second pinion is engaged with the first intermediate gear. An output shaft includes a sector gear and a spline. The sector gear is positioned at a first end of the output shaft. The spline is positioned at a second end of the output shaft opposite the first end. The sector gear is engaged with the first pinion. A motor is fixed to a third pinion. The third pinion is engaged with the second intermediate gear. The motor is configured to provide torque to rotate the input shaft, the first gear set, the second gear set, and the output shaft. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 The steering system is shown in the under-hood environment of a vehicle.

[0008] Figure 2A Shown Figure 1 A view of an example implementation of a portion of a steering system.

[0009] Figure 2B Shown Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a view of another example embodiment of a portion of a steering system.

[0010] Figure 3 Shown Figure 1 、 Figure 2A and Figure 2B Another view of the portion of the first example steering system.

[0011] Figure 4 Shown Figure 1 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B and Figure 3 Another view of a portion of a first example steering system.

[0012] Figure 5 Shown Figure 1 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 Another view of a portion of a first example steering system.

[0013] Figure 6 Shown Figure 1 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5 Another view of a portion of a first example steering system.

[0014] Figure 7 Shown Figure 1 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 and Figure 6 Another view of a portion of a first example steering system.

[0015] Figure 8A Shown Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a view of another example embodiment of a portion of a steering system.

[0016] Figure 8B Shown Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a view of another example embodiment of a portion of a steering system.

[0017] Figure 9 is a flow chart representing an example method of assembling a steering system according to the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0018] Generally, the same reference numbers will be used to refer to the same or like parts throughout the drawings and accompanying written description.The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0019] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the term "above" describes the relationship of two parts relative to the Earth. A first part is above a second part if the second part has at least a portion between the Earth and the first part. Similarly, as used herein, a first part is "below" a second part when the first part is closer to the Earth than the second part. As described above, a first part can be above or below a second part in one or more of the following ways: there are other parts between them, there are no other parts between them, the first part and the second part are touching, or the first part and the second part are not in direct contact with each other.

[0020] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and coupled) may include intermediate members between the elements referenced by the connection reference and / or relative movement between such elements. Thus, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and / or in fixed relation to each other. As used herein, stating that any part is "in contact with" another part is defined to mean that there are no intermediate parts between the two parts.

[0021] Unless otherwise specifically stated, descriptors such as "first," "second," and "third" as used herein do not in any way impose or otherwise indicate any meaning of priority, physical order, arrangement in a list, and / or ordering, but are merely used as labels and / or arbitrary names to distinguish elements to facilitate understanding of the disclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptor "first" may be used to refer to an element in the detailed description, while a different descriptor such as "second" or "third" may be used in the claims to refer to the same element. In such cases, it should be understood that such descriptors are only used to clearly identify the elements in question in a context (e.g., within the claims) where those elements might otherwise share the same name.

[0022] As used herein, "approximately" and "about" modify their subject matter / values ​​to acknowledge the potential for variations that occur in real-world applications. For example, "approximately" and "about" may modify dimensions that may not be exact due to manufacturing tolerances and / or other real-world imperfections, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, unless otherwise indicated in the following description, "approximately" and "about" may indicate that such dimensions may be within a tolerance range of + / - 10%.

[0023] As used herein in the context of describing the position and / or orientation of a first object, plane, or axis relative to a second object, plane, or axis, the term "substantially perpendicular" encompasses the term perpendicular, and more broadly encompasses the meaning that a first object, plane, or axis is positioned and / or oriented relative to the second object, plane, or axis at an absolute angle of no more than ten degrees (10°) from perpendicular. For example, a first axis that is substantially perpendicular to a second axis is positioned and / or oriented relative to the second axis at an absolute angle of no more than ten degrees (10°) from perpendicular.

[0024] As used herein in the context of describing the position and / or orientation of a first object, plane, or axis relative to a second object, plane, or axis, the term "substantially parallel" encompasses the term parallel, and more broadly encompasses the meaning that a first object, plane, or axis is positioned and / or oriented relative to the second object, plane, or axis at an absolute angle of no more than ten degrees (10°) relative to the parallel direction. For example, a first axis that is substantially parallel to a second axis is positioned and / or oriented relative to the second axis at an absolute angle of no more than ten degrees (10°) relative to the parallel direction. Thus, as used herein, the term "non-parallel" encompasses that a first object, plane, or axis is not within ten degrees (10°) of being parallel to the direction of a second object, plane, or axis.

[0025] As used herein, the phrase "communicate" (including variations thereof) encompasses direct communication and / or indirect communication through one or more intermediate components, and does not require direct physical (e.g., wired) communication and / or continuous communication, but also includes selective communication at periodic intervals, scheduled intervals, non-periodic intervals and / or one-time events.

[0026] As used herein, “programmable circuitry” is defined to include: (i) one or more special-purpose circuits (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs)) that are structured to perform specific operations and include one or more semiconductor-based logic devices (e.g., electrical hardware implemented by one or more transistors); and / or (ii) one or more general-purpose semiconductor-based circuits that can be programmed with instructions to perform specific functions and / or operations and include one or more semiconductor-based logic devices (e.g., electrical hardware implemented by one or more transistors). Examples of programmable circuitry include a programmable microprocessor, such as a central processing unit (CPU), which can execute a first instruction to perform one or more operations and / or functions; a field programmable gate array (FPGA), which can be programmed with a second instruction to cause the configuration and / or structure of the FPGA to instantiate one or more operations and / or functions corresponding to the first instruction; a graphics processing unit (GPU), which can execute a first instruction to perform one or more operations and / or functions; a digital signal processor (DSP), which can execute a first instruction to perform one or more operations and / or functions; an XPU; a network processing unit (NPU); one or more microcontrollers, which can execute a first instruction to perform one or more operations and / or functions; and / or an integrated circuit, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). For example, an XPU can be implemented by a heterogeneous computing system that includes multiple types of programmable circuitry (e.g., one or more FPGAs, one or more CPUs, one or more GPUs, one or more NPUs, one or more DSPs, etc., and / or any combination thereof) and orchestration technology (e.g., an application programming interface (API)) that can distribute computing tasks to one or more of the multiple types of programmable circuitry that are suitable and available to perform the computing tasks.

[0027] As used herein, an integrated circuit / circuitry is defined as one or more semiconductor packages containing one or more circuit elements, such as transistors, capacitors, inductors, resistors, current paths, diodes, etc. For example, an integrated circuit may be implemented as one or more of an ASIC, an FPGA, a chip, a microchip, a programmable circuitry, a semiconductor substrate coupling multiple circuit elements, a system on a chip (SoC), etc. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] This article discloses an example rotary steering system. Traditionally, some heavy-duty trucks utilize a steering mechanism that includes a hydraulically assisted RCB gear or worm gear and a wheel steering gear. In some cases, a pump provides hydraulic assistance to the RCB gear by pumping hydraulic steering fluid through the steering system. In some such cases, when the steering wheel is turned, the steering shaft rotates, causing the ball nut of the RCB gear to move linearly. The ball nut, in turn, rotates a sector gear coupled to a steering rocker arm that turns the wheels. Pumping hydraulic steering fluid based on the rotation of the steering shaft assists the movement of the ball nut. Alternatively, an electric motor can be utilized to replace the hydraulic pump to move the ball nut. However, space in the vehicle's underhood environment must be kept free of other vehicle systems and reserved for the linear movement of the ball nut in the RCB steering gear.

[0029] The examples disclosed herein provide a fully rotary steering gear system that generates enough power to steer a relatively heavy vehicle, such as a truck. Thus, the steering system enables such relatively heavy vehicles to utilize an electric steering system rather than a hydraulic power steering system. Furthermore, the lack of linear movement in the rotary steering gear system enables the system to occupy less space in the underhood environment of the vehicle, and therefore leaves more space in the underhood environment for other systems associated with the vehicle, such as the engine, fan, etc. In addition, the rotary steering gear system can be implemented in a variety of vehicles with different underhood layouts. Non-limiting examples of the vehicles disclosed herein include internal combustion engine vehicles, battery electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, fuel cell vehicles, etc. Although the fully rotary steering gear system disclosed herein generates enough power to steer a truck, it should be understood that the examples disclosed herein can be implemented in any other steerable vehicle.

[0030] Figure 1 A first view of a vehicle steering system (eg, steering device, steering actuator) 102 is shown in an under-hood environment 100 of a vehicle. Figure 1 , the steering system 102 is positioned within a housing 104. In some examples, the housing 104 includes one or more housings coupled to protect the steering system 102. In some examples, an input shaft 106 of the steering system 102 protrudes from the housing 104. In some examples, the input shaft 106 is coupled to a steering shaft 108 via a connector 110. In some examples, the steering shaft 108 is operatively coupled to a steering wheel of the vehicle. Thus, when the driver turns the steering wheel, the input shaft 106 rotates along with the steering shaft 108. In turn, the steering system 102 converts the rotation of the steering wheel into rotation of the vehicle's wheels to steer the vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, when the vehicle is driving autonomously, the steering system 102 may rotate the vehicle's wheels without rotating the steering wheel.

[0031] exist Figure 1 In FIG. 1 , the steering system 102 is positioned between a vehicle frame 112 and a fan 114 in the underhood environment 100. Typically, a vehicle includes a fan 114 to move air through the radiator and maintain the operating temperature of the vehicle's engine. Thus, the fan 114, radiator, and engine occupy a significant amount of space in the underhood environment 100. The vehicle's engine is located in the Figure 1 1 to more clearly illustrate the output shaft 116, pitman arm 118, and tie rod 120 of the steering system 102. Advantageously, the stacked gears and motor 122 of the steering system 102 enable the steering system 102 to be positioned within a relatively small space within the underhood environment 100 while still generating sufficient power to turn the wheels of a heavy truck. Specifically, the stacked gears provide a combined speed reduction greater than 100:1 to generate sufficient force to turn the wheels.

[0032] An output shaft 116 extends from a sector gear within housing 104. More specifically, output shaft 116 protrudes from a bottom portion of housing 104 to couple to a pitman arm 118. In some examples, an opening in pitman arm 118 includes splines that mate with splines 124 of output shaft 116. Furthermore, pitman arm 118 couples to a tie rod 120, which is connected to the wheels of the vehicle.

[0033] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, the steering system 102 rotates the output shaft 116 in response to the rotation of the steering shaft 108 and / or an autonomous steering command. In turn, the output shaft 116 causes the pitman arm 118 to move (e.g., pivot). Furthermore, the pitman arm 118 converts the rotation of the output shaft 116 into linear movement of the tie rod 120. In some examples, the tie rod 120 is connected to the steering knuckle of the vehicle's wheels. In some such examples, the linear movement of the tie rod 120 adjusts the orientation of the steering knuckle to turn the wheel. As a result, the steering system 102 converts the rotation of the steering shaft 108 into movement of the wheel to steer the vehicle.

[0034] In some examples, a sufficient amount of force must be generated to turn the wheels of a heavier vehicle, such as a truck. Therefore, the steering system 102 provides a combined gear reduction greater than 100:1 to generate the sufficient amount of force required to steer the truck when electric steering is utilized.

[0035] Figure 2A A first example steering system 200 (eg, Figure 1 A portion of a first example embodiment of a steering system 102 of FIG. Figure 2A , the steering system 102 includes an input shaft 201 (e.g., Figure 1The steering system 200 further includes a first gear assembly 204 (e.g., a first torque multiplication assembly, a first gear set), a second gear assembly 206 (e.g., a second torque multiplication assembly, a second gear set), an output shaft 116, Figure 1 The motor 122 and the first pinion 210 fixed to the shaft 211 of the motor 122. The first gear assembly 204 includes a first intermediate gear 212 and a second pinion 214. The second gear assembly 206 includes a second intermediate gear 216 and a third pinion 218.

[0036] exist Figure 2A In the illustrated example of FIG, the output shaft 116 includes a sector gear 220 fixed to a first longitudinal end 222 of the output shaft 116. The output shaft 116 also includes a spline 124 positioned at a second longitudinal end 224 of the output shaft 116. The first longitudinal end 222 of the output shaft 116 faces in a first direction (e.g., upward), while the second longitudinal end 224 of the output shaft 116 faces in a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., downward). The sector gear 220 is at least partially facing in the first direction (e.g., the same direction as the first longitudinal end 222). Figure 2A orientation upward).

[0037] exist Figure 2A In the illustrated example, the input gear 202 and the third pinion 218 are engaged with the first intermediate gear 212. The first pinion 210 is engaged with the second intermediate gear 216. The second pinion 214 is engaged with the sector gear 220. The motor 122 provides auxiliary steering torque when the input shaft 201 rotates and / or provides the entire steering torque when the associated vehicle is driving autonomously. Specifically, the motor 122 rotates the first pinion 210, which rotates the second intermediate gear 216 and, in turn, the third pinion 218. In addition, the third pinion 218 and / or the input gear 202 rotate the first intermediate gear 212 and, in turn, the second pinion 214. In addition, the second pinion 214 rotates the sector gear 220. The spline 124 rotates with the sector gear 220 and Figure 1 The steering rocker arm 118 pivots, which makes Figure 1 The pull rod 120 moves and pivots the wheels of the vehicle.

[0038] exist Figure 2AIn the illustrated example, when the steering system 200 is implemented in a heavier vehicle, the first gear assembly 204 and the second gear assembly 206 increase the torque generated by the motor 122 to generate sufficient force to rotate the sector gear 220. Specifically, because the first pinion 210 has a smaller circumference and fewer teeth (e.g., cogs) than the second intermediate gear 216, the engagement between the first pinion 210 and the second intermediate gear 216 provides a first gear reduction. Similarly, the engagement between the third pinion 218 and the first intermediate gear 212 provides a second gear reduction, and the engagement between the second pinion 214 and the sector gear 220 provides a third gear reduction. Together, the gear reductions can provide a reduction ratio greater than 100:1 to increase the torque received by the sector gear 220 from the second pinion 214.

[0039] exist Figure 2A In the illustrated example, the input shaft 201 and the input gear 202 are aligned along a first rotation axis 226. The first intermediate gear 212 and the second pinion gear 214 are aligned along a second rotation axis 228. The second intermediate gear 216 and the third pinion gear 218 are aligned along a third rotation axis 230. The first pinion gear 210 and the shaft 211 of the motor 122 are aligned along a fourth rotation axis 232. Figure 2A In the illustrated example, first, second, third, and fourth axes of rotation 226, 228, 230, and 232 are substantially parallel. In some examples, at least two of first, second, third, and / or fourth axes of rotation 226, 228, 230, and 232 are non-parallel. For example, third axis of rotation 230 may not be parallel to second axis of rotation 228 as long as third pinion 218 is operatively engaged with first intermediate gear 212.

[0040] exist Figure 2AIn the illustrated example, the output shaft 116 (e.g., the sector gear 220 and the spline 124) are aligned along a fifth rotational axis 234. In some examples, the fifth rotational axis 234 is substantially perpendicular to the first rotational axis 226, the second rotational axis 228, the third rotational axis 230, and the fourth rotational axis 232. More specifically, the second pinion gear 214 and the sector gear 220 are bevel gears, and the fifth rotational axis 234 intersects the second rotational axis 228. Thus, the engagement between the second pinion gear 214 and the sector gear 220 converts rotation within the system 200 from rotation along an axis transverse to the output shaft 116 to rotation along the longitudinal axis of the output shaft 116 (e.g., the fifth rotational axis 234). Thus, the conversion of rotational direction provided by the engagement between the second pinion gear 214 and the sector gear 220 enables the steering system 200 to operate without any linear movement. Advantageously, the lack of linear movement during operation enables the steering system 200 to occupy less space and therefore adapt to various under-hood environments while leaving additional space for other systems associated with the vehicle.

[0041] exist Figure 2A In the illustrated example, the input gear 202 and the third pinion 218 engage with the first intermediate gear 212 in a first geometric plane 236. The first pinion 210 engages with the second intermediate gear 216 in a second geometric plane 238. In addition, the second pinion 214 and a portion of the sector gear 220 that engages with the second pinion 214 are aligned in the second geometric plane 238. Figure 2A In the illustrated example, first geometric plane 236 and second geometric plane 238 are substantially parallel. Additionally, sector gear 220 rotates within a third geometric plane 240 that is substantially perpendicular to first geometric plane 236 and second geometric plane 238.

[0042] In some examples, the second pinion gear 214 and the portion of the sector gear 220 are aligned in another geometric plane (e.g., a fourth geometric plane substantially parallel to the first and second geometric planes) positioned between the first geometric plane 236 and the second geometric plane 238. In some examples, to accommodate certain under-hood environments, the first pinion gear 210 and the second intermediate gear 216 are positioned on a side of the first intermediate gear 212 opposite the second pinion gear 214. In such examples, the first pinion gear 210 engages the second intermediate gear 216 on a first side of the first geometric plane 236, and the second pinion gear 214 engages the sector gear 220 on a second side of the first geometric plane 236 opposite the first side. Additionally, the first rotational axis 226 is positioned in an orbital relationship with respect to the second rotational axis 228; the third rotational axis 230 is positioned in an orbital relationship with respect to the second rotational axis 228; and the fourth rotational axis 232 is positioned in an orbital relationship with respect to the third rotational axis 230. Thus, in addition to occupying a relatively small amount of space, the layout of the steering device may be tailored based on the particular under-hood environment in which the steering system 200 is to be implemented.

[0043] exist Figure 2A In the illustrated example of FIG, the steering system 200 includes a cover 242 (e.g., a sub-housing) positioned about the output shaft 116 between the sector gear 220 and the spline 124. Specifically, the cover 242 includes a first end 245 proximate the sector gear 220 and a second end 247 proximate the spline 124. In some examples, the cover 242 is coupled to Figure 1 The housing 104 is configured to include a cover 242. In some examples, the cover 242 includes a rim 249 (e.g., a protruding edge) at the first end 245 that protrudes away from the fifth axis of rotation 234. In such examples, the rim 249 is positioned below the sector gear 220. In some examples, the rim 249 extends completely around the first end 245 of the cover 242. In some other examples, the rim 249 extends around a portion of the first end 245 of the cover 242 that corresponds to the range of movement of the sector gear 220. In some examples, when the second pinion rotates the sector gear 220, the sector gear 220 slides on the rim 249. In such examples, the rim 249 provides axial support for the sector gear 220.

[0044] To support the first gear assembly 204 and the output shaft 116, the steering system 200 includes a first axial position screw 244 (e.g., a first positioning screw, a first meshing screw, a first axial position adjuster screw, etc.) and a second axial position screw 246 (e.g., a second positioning screw, a second meshing screw, a second axial adjuster screw, etc.). The first axial position screw 244 is positioned along the second rotational axis 228, and the second axial position screw 246 is positioned along the fifth rotational axis 234. The steering system 200 also includes a first locking ring 248 (e.g., a first threaded locking ring) and a second locking ring 250 (e.g., a second threaded locking ring) to connect the first axial position screw 244 and the second axial position screw 246 to the first gear assembly 204 and the output shaft 116, respectively.

[0045] As discussed in further detail below, during assembly of the steering system 200, the first axial position screw 244 and the second axial position screw 246 respectively move the first gear assembly 204 and the output shaft 116 until the engagement between the second pinion 214 and the sector gear 220 provides a certain torque (e.g., 1 Newton-meter (Nm)) when the second pinion 214 rotates, thereby forming a precise mesh between the second pinion 214 and the sector gear 220. In some examples, when the corresponding positions of the first gear assembly 204 and the output shaft 116 are set, the first axial position screw 244 and / or the second axial position screw 246 are coupled to the housing 104 or a sub-housing. For example, the first axial position screw 244 and / or the second axial position screw 246 can be pinned to the housing 104 or a sub-housing. In some examples, the first axial position screw 244 and / or the second axial position screw 246 can be secured with a locking nut. Thus, the first axial position screw 244 and the second axial position screw 246 support the first gear assembly 204 and the output shaft 116 within the housing 104 .

[0046] To support the second gear assembly 206, the second gear assembly 206 includes a first bearing journal 252, a second bearing journal 254, and a third bearing journal 256. The first bearing journal 252 is positioned on the side of the third pinion gear 218 opposite the second intermediate gear 216. Alternatively or additionally, the first bearing journal 252 may be positioned within the circumference of the third pinion gear 218. The second bearing journal 254 is positioned between the third pinion gear 218 and the second intermediate gear 216. Furthermore, the third bearing journal 256 is positioned on the side of the second intermediate gear 216 opposite the third pinion gear 218. Alternatively or additionally, the third bearing journal 256 may be positioned within the circumference of the second intermediate gear 216. The bearing journals 252, 254, and 256 may be positioned in corresponding sleeves or housings coupled to the housing 104 or another sub-housing for support while enabling the second gear assembly 206 to rotate.

[0047] Figure 2B Another example steering system 260 is shown, except that Figure 2A In addition to the components of the steering system 200, it also includes one or more additional intermediate gear sets 262. Figure 2B In the illustrated example, the additional intermediate gear set 262 includes one or more intermediate gears, each of which is fixed to a corresponding pinion gear (e.g., similar to the second intermediate gear 216 and the third pinion gear 218 of the second gear assembly 206). Thus, the intermediate gear set 262 includes an intermediate gear engaged with the first pinion gear 210 at one end and a pinion gear engaged with the second intermediate gear 216 at the other end to increase the gear reduction ratio and, therefore, increase the torque transmitted to the sector gear 220.

[0048] exist Figure 2BIn the illustrated example, during operation, motor 122 rotates first pinion 210, which rotates an intermediate gear of intermediate gear set 262 that is engaged with first pinion 210. Consequently, a pinion gear of intermediate gear set 262, which is fixed to an intermediate gear of intermediate gear set 262, rotates along with the intermediate gear. In some examples, the pinion gear engages with and rotates second intermediate gear 216, which in turn rotates third pinion gear 218. Consequently, first intermediate gear 212, second pinion gear 214, sector gear 220, and spline 124 rotate. In some examples, the pinion gear of intermediate gear set 262 rotates another intermediate gear of intermediate gear set 262, which in turn rotates another pinion gear fixed to the other intermediate gear. The pinion gear can then engage with and rotate second intermediate gear 216 or another intermediate gear set. The number of intermediate gears and associated pinions included in additional intermediate gear set 262 between first pinion 210 and second intermediate gear 216 depends on the vehicle in which steering system 260 is to be implemented and / or the space available for steering system 260 in the underhood environment of the vehicle.

[0049] Figure 3 Shown Figures 2A to 2B Another view of the example steering system 200, 260, wherein a portion of the cover 242 has been removed. Figure 3 In the illustrated example of , the steering system 200 includes a first roller bearing 302 (e.g., a first needle bearing), a second roller bearing 304 (e.g., a second needle bearing), and a spring 306 positioned around the output shaft 116 between the cover 242 and the output shaft 116. Specifically, the first roller bearing 302 is positioned at the first end 245 of the cover 242; the second roller bearing 304 is positioned at the second end 247 of the cover 242; and the spring 306 is positioned around a portion of the output shaft 116 between the first roller bearing 302 and the second roller bearing 304.

[0050] exist Figure 3In the illustrated example, the first and second roller bearings 302, 304 include inner radial surfaces (not shown) coupled to the outer radial surface 308 of the output shaft 116. The first and second roller bearings 302, 304 also include outer radial surfaces 310 coupled to the inner radial surface 312 of the cover 242. The first and second roller bearings 302, 304 also include roller bearings (e.g., rolling elements) (not shown) positioned between the inner and outer radial surfaces 310 of the roller bearings 302, 304. During operation, when the second pinion 214 rotates the sector gear 220, the roller bearings roll between the inner and outer radial surfaces 310 to radially support the output shaft 116. Thus, the second axial position screw 246 and / or the cover 242 can axially support the output shaft 116, and the roller bearings 302, 304 can radially support the output shaft 116.

[0051] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated example, during assembly of the steering system 200, the spring 306 provides a constant force on the output shaft 116 in a direction toward the sector gear 220 (e.g., upward). Specifically, the inner radial surface 312 of the cover 242 includes a first recess 314, and the first end of the spring 306 (e.g., the end opposite the sector gear 220) can be positioned on a surface 315 (e.g., a shoulder) of the first recess 314 facing the first end 245. Additionally, the outer radial surface 308 of the output shaft 116 includes a protrusion (not shown) (e.g., a second shoulder) against which the second end of the spring 306 abuts to exert an upward force. For example, the protrusion against which the second end of the spring 306 abuts can be defined at or below an end of the first roller bearing 302 facing the second longitudinal end 224 of the output shaft 116. Furthermore, the surface of the protrusion that the spring 306 contacts faces the second longitudinal end 224. Thus, the spring 306 pushes the sector gear 220 against the second pinion gear 214 to help move the output shaft 116 into a position that produces the desired torque between the second pinion gear 214 and the sector gear 220 during assembly. In some examples, when the second axial position screw 246 and / or the cover 242 are coupled to the Figure 1 When the housing 104 is removed, the spring 306 is removed. In some examples, an actuator and associated programmable circuitry are used in place of the spring 306 to provide an upward force during assembly. For example, the programmable circuitry can cause the actuator to move the output shaft 116 toward the second pinion gear 214 and stop moving the output shaft 116 when the programmable circuitry determines that the actuator encounters resistance indicating sufficient contact between the second pinion gear 214 and the sector gear 220.

[0052] In some examples, the inner radial surface 312 of the cover 242 includes a second recess 316 for the first roller bearing 302 and a third recess 318 for the second roller bearing 304. Additionally, the outer radial surface 308 of the output shaft 116 may include a second protrusion 320 against which one end of the first roller bearing 302 is positioned. Similarly, the outer radial surface 308 of the output shaft 116 may include a third protrusion 322 at the first longitudinal end 222 against which the second roller bearing 304 contacts. Thus, the recesses 316, 318 in the cover 242 and the protrusions 320, 322 of the output shaft 116 serve as position markers for the roller bearings 302, 304, thereby improving the accuracy of the position of the roller bearings 302, 304 and / or the efficiency of positioning the roller bearings 302, 304 during assembly of the steering system 200.

[0053] Figure 4 Figures 2 and Figure 3 Another view of the first example steering system 200. Figure 4 In the illustrated example, the input gear 202 and the third pinion 218 engage with the first intermediate gear 212 in a first geometric plane 236. The first pinion 210 engages with the second intermediate gear 216 in a second geometric plane 238. In addition, the second pinion 214 engages with the sector gear 220 in a second geometric plane 238. Figure 4 In the illustrated example, a second axial position screw 246 and a second locking ring 250 extend from the first longitudinal end 222 of the output shaft 116 .

[0054] Figure 5 An enlarged view of the screw 246 and the second locking ring 250 is shown for positioning the second axial position of the output shaft 116 of the steering system 200 during assembly. Figure 5 As shown in the illustrated example, the second axial position screw 246 extends at least partially through a recess 502 in the output shaft 116. More specifically, the recess 502 extends at least partially through the output shaft 116 along the fifth rotational axis 234. A second locking ring 250 retains the second axial position screw 246 in the recess 502. For example, the second locking ring 250 may be a lock nut that locks the second axial position screw 246 in the recess 502 of the output shaft 116. Thus, the second locking ring 250 enables the output shaft 116 to move axially along with the second axial position screw 246. In some examples, the steering system 200 includes a washer 504 positioned in the recess 502 and in contact with the second locking ring 250. In such examples, the washer 504 facilitates rotational movement of the second axial position screw 246 and / or the second locking ring 250.

[0055] Figure 6 Figure 2 shows Figure 5Another view of the first example steering system 200. Figure 6 In the illustrated example, the input shaft 201 and the input gear 202 are aligned along a first rotation axis 226. The first intermediate gear 212 and the second pinion gear 214 are aligned along a second rotation axis 228. The second intermediate gear 216 and the third pinion gear 218 are aligned along a third rotation axis 230. The first pinion gear 210 and the shaft 211 of the motor 122 are aligned along a fourth rotation axis 232. Figure 6 In the illustrated example, the first axial position screw 244 and the first locking ring 248 extend from a side of the first gear assembly 204 on a side of the first intermediate gear 212 opposite the second pinion gear 214 .

[0056] Figure 7 An enlarged view of a first axial position screw 244 and a first locking ring 248 that position the first gear assembly 204 of the steering system 200 during assembly and / or support the first gear assembly 204 during operation is shown. Figure 7 As shown in the illustrated example, the first axial position screw 244 extends at least partially through a recess 702 in the first gear assembly 204. More specifically, the recess 702 extends at least partially through the first gear assembly 204 along the second rotational axis 228. A first locking ring 248 retains the first axial position screw 244 in the recess 702. For example, the first locking ring 248 can be a lock nut that locks the first axial position screw 244 in the recess 702 of the first gear assembly 204. Thus, the first locking ring 248 enables the first gear assembly 204 to move axially along with the first axial position screw 244. In some examples, the steering system 200 includes washers 704, 706 positioned in the recess 702. For example, the first washer 704 can contact the first locking ring 248, and the second washer 706 can contact an inner surface of the first gear assembly 204. In such examples, washers 704 , 706 facilitate rotational movement of first axial position screw 244 and / or first locking ring 248 .

[0057] Figure 8A A second example steering system 800 (eg, Figure 1 A portion of a second exemplary embodiment of a steering system 102 of FIG. Figure 8A In the illustrated example, the steering system 800 includes an input shaft 801 (e.g., Figure 1 The steering system 800 further includes an input gear 802 fixed to the input shaft 801 and a first intermediate gear 804. Specifically, the input shaft 801 includes a first end 806 (e.g., coupled to Figure 1The input gear 802 is fixed to the second end 808.

[0058] exist Figure 8A In the illustrated example, the steering system 800 further includes a first gear assembly 810 (e.g., a first gear set), a second gear assembly 812 (e.g., a second gear set), the output shaft 116, the motor 122, a motor shaft 811, and a first pinion 814 fixed to one end of the motor shaft 811. The first gear assembly 810 includes a second intermediate gear 816 and a second pinion 818. The second gear assembly 812 includes a third intermediate gear 820 and a third pinion 822.

[0059] The first pinion gear 814 engages with the second intermediate gear 816 , which provides a first gear reduction.

[0060] The second pinion 818 engages with the first intermediate gear 804, which provides a second gear reduction. The input gear 802 engages with the third intermediate gear 820, which provides a third gear reduction. The third pinion 822 engages with the sector gear 220, which provides a fourth gear reduction.

[0061] During operation, the motor 122 rotates the first pinion 814, which rotates the second intermediate gear 816 and, in turn, the second pinion 818. The second pinion 818 rotates the first intermediate gear 804 and, thus, transmits the torque generated by the motor 122 to the input shaft 801. The transmitted torque enables the input gear 802 to rotate the third intermediate gear 820 and, in turn, the third pinion 822. Thus, the third pinion 822 rotates the sector gear 220 and Figures 1 to 3 The spline 124 rotates with the sector gear 220 and Figure 1 The steering rocker arm 118 pivots, which makes Figure 1 The pull rod 120 moves and pivots the wheels of the vehicle.

[0062] exist Figure 8A In the illustrated example, the input shaft 801 is arranged along a first rotational axis 824 (eg, Figure 2A Therefore, the input gear 802 and the first intermediate gear 804 rotate around the first rotation axis 824. Figure 8A , the first intermediate gear 804 is positioned on a protrusion 826 in the input shaft 801 that extends radially outward between the first end 806 and the second end 808. Thus, the first intermediate gear 804 comprises a larger circumference than the input gear 802.

[0063] exist Figure 8AIn the illustrated example, the first gear assembly 810 is aligned along the second axis of rotation 828. Therefore, the second intermediate gear 816 and the second pinion gear 818 rotate about the second axis of rotation 828. Figure 8A In the embodiment, the second axis of rotation 828 is substantially perpendicular to the first axis of rotation 824. Thus, the first intermediate gear 804 and the second pinion gear 818 form a first set of bevel gears in the steering system 800. Figure 8A In the illustrated example of , the second axis of rotation 828 is orbital relative to the first axis of rotation 824 as long as the second pinion 818 is engaged with the first intermediate gear 804 and the second intermediate gear 816 is engaged with the first pinion 814 .

[0064] exist Figure 8A In the illustrated example, the motor shaft 811 is aligned along the third rotational axis 830, and therefore, the first pinion gear 814 is rotatable about the third rotational axis 830. The third rotational axis 830 is substantially perpendicular to the second rotational axis 828. Thus, the first pinion gear 814 and the second intermediate gear 816 form a second set of bevel gears in the steering system 800.

[0065] exist Figure 8A In the illustrated example, the second gear assembly 812 is aligned along the fourth axis of rotation 832. Therefore, the third intermediate gear 820 and the third pinion gear 822 can rotate about the fourth axis of rotation 832. Figure 8A , the fourth axis of rotation 832 is substantially perpendicular to the first axis of rotation 824. Thus, the input gear 802 and the third intermediate gear 820 form a third set of bevel gears in the steering system 800. In some examples, the fourth axis of rotation 832 is also substantially perpendicular to the second axis of rotation 828. The fifth axis of rotation 234 of the output shaft 116 is substantially perpendicular to the fourth axis of rotation 832, such that the third pinion gear 822 and the sector gear 220 form a fourth set of bevel gears in the steering system 800. In some examples, the steering system 800 includes an axial position screw (e.g., FIG. 2 to FIG. 3 ). Figure 4 and Figures 6 and 7 The first axial position of the screw 244, FIG. 2 to FIG. Figure 5 The second axial position screw 246) is used to support the first gear assembly 810, the second gear assembly 812 and the output shaft 116.

[0066] Figure 8B Another example steering system 860 is shown, except that Figure 8A In addition to the components of the steering system 800, it also includes one or more additional intermediate gear sets 862. Figure 8BIn the illustrated example, the additional intermediate gear set 862 includes one or more intermediate gears, each of which is fixed to a corresponding pinion (e.g., similar to the second intermediate gear 216 and the third pinion 218 of the second gear assembly 206 ( Figures 2A to 2B )). Thus, the intermediate gear set 862 includes an intermediate gear engaged with the first pinion 814 at one end and another pinion engaged with the second intermediate gear 816 at the other end to increase the gear reduction ratio and thus increase the torque transmitted to the sector gear 220.

[0067] Thus, during operation, motor 122 rotates first pinion 814, which rotates the intermediate gear of intermediate gear set 862 that is engaged with first pinion 814. In some examples, a pinion of intermediate gear set 862, which is fixed to an intermediate gear of intermediate gear set 262, engages with second intermediate gear 816 and rotates the second intermediate gear, which in turn rotates second pinion 818. Consequently, first intermediate gear 804, input gear 802, third intermediate gear 820, third pinion 822, sector gear 220, and spline 124 rotate. In some examples, a pinion of intermediate gear set 862, which is fixed to an intermediate gear engaged with first pinion 814, rotates another intermediate gear, which in turn rotates another pinion fixed to the other intermediate gear. The pinion can then engage with second intermediate gear 816 or another intermediate gear set. The number of intermediate gears and associated pinions included in the additional intermediate gear set 862 between the first pinion 814 and the second intermediate gear 816 depends on the vehicle in which the steering system 860 is to be implemented and / or the space available for the steering system 860 in the underhood environment of the vehicle.

[0068] Figure 9 Flowcharts representing example machine-readable instructions that can be executed by programmable circuitry and / or performed by a human to assemble the operations of steering systems 200, 800 are shown in FIG. In some examples, the machine-readable instructions cause operations, tasks, etc. to be performed and / or executed in an automated manner in the real world. As used herein, "automated" means without human involvement.

[0069] The program may be embodied in instructions (e.g., software and / or firmware) stored on one or more non-transitory computer-readable and / or machine-readable storage media, such as cache memory, magnetic storage devices or disks (e.g., floppy disks, hard disk drives (HDDs), etc.), optical storage devices or optical disks (e.g., Blu-ray Discs, Compact Discs (CDs), Digital Versatile Discs (DVDs), etc.), Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID), registers, ROM, solid-state drives (SSDs), SSD memory, non-volatile memory (e.g., electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, etc.), volatile memory (e.g., any type of random access memory (RAM), etc.), and / or any other storage device or storage disk. The instructions of the non-transitory computer-readable and / or machine-readable media may program and / or be executed by programmable circuitry located in one or more hardware devices, but the entire program and / or portions thereof may alternatively be executed and / or instantiated by one or more hardware devices rather than the programmable circuitry, and / or embodied in dedicated hardware. The machine-readable instructions may be distributed across multiple hardware devices and / or executed by two or more hardware devices (e.g., a server and a client hardware device). For example, a client hardware device may be implemented by an endpoint client hardware device (e.g., a hardware device associated with a human and / or machine user) or an intermediate client hardware device gateway (e.g., a radio access network (RAN) that may facilitate communications between a server and an endpoint client hardware device). Similarly, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may include one or more media. Furthermore, although reference is made to Figure 9 The flowcharts shown depict example procedures, but many other methods of assembling the example steering systems 200 and 800 may alternatively be used. For example, the order of execution of the blocks in the flowcharts may be changed, and / or some of the blocks described may be changed, deleted, or combined. Additionally or alternatively, any or all of the blocks in the flowcharts may be implemented using one or more hardware circuits (e.g., processor circuitry, discrete and / or integrated analog and / or digital circuitry, FPGAs, ASICs, comparators, operational amplifiers (op-amps), logic circuits, etc.) that are structured to perform the corresponding operations without executing software or firmware. The programmable circuitry may be distributed across different network locations and / or local to one or more hardware devices (e.g., single-core processors (e.g., single-core CPUs), multi-core processors (e.g., multi-core CPUs, XPUs, etc.)). For example, the programmable circuitry may be a CPU and / or FPGA in the same package (e.g., the same integrated circuit (IC) package or in two or more separate housings), one or more processors in a single machine, multiple processors distributed across multiple servers in a server rack, multiple processors distributed across one or more server racks, and / or any combination thereof.

[0070] The machine-readable instructions described herein may be stored in one or more of a compressed format, an encrypted format, a segmented format, a compiled format, an executable format, a packaged format, and the like. The machine-readable instructions as described herein may be stored as data (e.g., computer-readable data, machine-readable data, one or more bits (e.g., one or more computer-readable bits, one or more machine-readable bits, etc.), a bitstream (e.g., a computer-readable bitstream, a machine-readable bitstream, etc.), etc.) or a data structure (e.g., an instruction portion, code, a code representation, etc.) that can be used to create, manufacture, and / or generate machine-executable instructions. For example, the machine-readable instructions may be segmented and stored on one or more storage devices, disks, and / or computing devices (e.g., servers) located in the same or different locations (e.g., in the cloud, on an edge device, etc.) on a network or collection of networks. The machine-readable instructions may need to be installed, modified, adapted, updated, combined, supplemented, configured, decrypted, decompressed, unpacked, distributed, redistributed, compiled, and the like in order to make them directly readable, interpretable, and / or executable by a computing device and / or other machine. For example, machine-readable instructions may be stored in multiple parts that are separately compressed, encrypted, and / or stored on separate computing devices, wherein the parts, when decrypted, decompressed, and / or combined, form a computer-executable and / or machine-executable set of instructions that implement one or more functions and / or operations that may together form a program such as described herein.

[0071] In another example, the machine-readable instructions may be stored in a state in which they can be read by a programmable circuit system, but a library (e.g., a dynamic link library (DLL)), a software development kit (SDK), an application programming interface (API), etc. may need to be added in order to execute the machine-readable instructions on a particular computing device or other device. In another example, the machine-readable instructions and / or corresponding program may need to be configured (e.g., to store settings, input data, record network addresses, etc.) before they can be executed in whole or in part. Therefore, as used herein, machine-readable, computer-readable, and / or machine-readable media may include instructions and / or programs regardless of the specific format or state of the machine-readable instructions and / or programs.

[0072] The machine-readable instructions described herein may be represented by any past, present, or future instruction language, scripting language, programming language, etc. For example, the machine-readable instructions may be represented using any of the following languages: C, C++, Java, C#, Perl, Python, JavaScript, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Structured Query Language (SQL), Swift, etc.

[0073] As mentioned above, Figure 9The example operations of may be implemented using executable instructions (e.g., computer-readable and / or machine-readable instructions) stored on one or more non-transitory computer-readable and / or machine-readable media. As used herein, the terms non-transitory computer-readable medium, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, non-transitory machine-readable medium, and / or non-transitory machine-readable storage medium are expressly defined to include any type of computer-readable storage device and / or storage disk, and exclude propagation signals and exclude transmission media. Examples of such non-transitory computer-readable media, non-transitory computer-readable storage media, non-transitory machine-readable media, and / or non-transitory machine-readable storage media include optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, HDDs, flash memories, read-only memories (ROMs), CDs, DVDs, caches, any type of RAM, registers, and / or any other storage device or storage disk in which information is stored for any duration (e.g., for an extended period of time, permanently, for transient situations, for temporary buffering, and / or for caching information). As used herein, the terms "non-transitory computer-readable storage" and "non-transitory machine-readable storage" are defined to include any physical (mechanical, magnetic, and / or electrical) hardware for retaining information for a period of time, but excluding propagating signals and excluding transmission media. Examples of non-transitory computer-readable storage and / or non-transitory machine-readable storage include any type of random access memory, any type of read-only memory, solid-state memory, flash memory, optical disks, magnetic disks, disk drives, and / or redundant arrays of independent disks (RAID) systems. As used herein, the term "device" refers to a physical structure, such as a mechanical and / or electrical device, hardware, and / or circuitry, that may or may not be configured by computer-readable instructions, machine-readable instructions, etc., and / or manufactured to execute computer-readable instructions, machine-readable instructions, etc.

[0074] "Including" and "comprising" (and all forms and tenses thereof) are used herein as open-ended terms. Thus, whenever a claim uses any form of "includes" or "comprising" (e.g., comprises, includes, comprising, including, having, etc.) as a preamble or within any type of claim formulation, it should be understood that additional elements, items, etc. may be present without falling outside the scope of the corresponding claim or formulation. As used herein, when the phrase "at least" is used as a transitional term, such as in the preamble of a claim, it becomes an open-ended term in the same manner that the terms "includes" and "comprising" become open-ended terms. The term "and / or" when used, for example, in a form such as A, B, and / or C refers to any combination or subset of A, B, and C, such as (1) only A, (2) only B, (3) only C, (4) A and B, (5) A and C, (6) B and C, or (7) A and B and C. As used herein in the context of describing structures, components, articles, objects, and / or things, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to embodiments that include any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing structures, components, articles, objects, and / or things, the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to embodiments that include any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. As used herein in the context of describing the performance or execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities, and / or steps, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to embodiments that include any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing the performance or execution of a process, instruction, action, activity, and / or step, the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to an embodiment that includes any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B.

[0075] As used herein, singular references (e.g., "a / an," "first," "second," etc.) do not exclude the plural. As used herein, the term "a / an" object refers to one or more such objects. The terms "a / an," "one or more," and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein. In addition, although listed separately, multiple devices, elements, or actions may be implemented by, for example, the same entity or object. In addition, although individual features may be included in different examples or claims, these may be combined, and inclusion in different examples or claims does not mean that the combination of features is not feasible and / or disadvantageous.

[0076] Figure 9 is a method that can be executed, instantiated, and / or performed by a programmable circuit system to assemble a steering actuator (such as Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8A and Figure 8B A flowchart of example machine readable instructions and / or example operations 900 of an example steering system 200, 260, 800, 860). Figure 9 The example machine readable instructions and / or example operations 900 begin at block 902 where a first bevel gear (e.g., the sector gear 220) is positioned and provided with axial support. For example, the second axial position screw 246, the cover 242, and / or the spring 306 may position and support the output shaft 116 and, in turn, the sector gear 220.

[0077] At block 904, the second bevel gear (eg, Figures 2A to 2B The second pinion 214, Figures 8A to 8B The third pinion 822) moves axially to engage the first bevel gear. For example, the first axial position screw 244 can make Figures 2A to 2B The first gear assembly 204 and / or Figures 8A to 8B The second gear assembly 812 is moved to engage the second pinion 214 and / or the third pinion 822 with the sector gear 220. In some examples, another axial control mechanism moves the first bevel gear.

[0078] At block 906, the first bevel gear and the second bevel gear are rotated and the torque generated and / or obtained by the rotation is measured. For example, an input torque may be applied to the second bevel gear (e.g., Figures 2A to 2B The first gear assembly 204, Figures 8A to 8BThe second gear assembly 812 of FIG, and the output torque can be measured at the first bevel gear (eg, sector gear 220, output shaft 116).

[0079] At block 908, the output torque is compared to a torque threshold (e.g., 1 Nm). For example, the torque threshold may be set based on the input torque and the gear reduction ratio between the second ramp and the first ramp. When the output torque satisfies (e.g., is greater than, greater than, or equal to) the torque threshold (e.g., block 908 returns a "yes" result), operation 900 proceeds to block 912. Otherwise, when the output torque does not satisfy (e.g., is less than, equal to, or less than) the torque threshold (e.g., block 908 returns a "no" result), operation 900 proceeds to block 910.

[0080] At block 910, the first bevel gear and / or the second bevel gear are moved axially (e.g., along their respective rotational axes) to adjust the engagement between the bevel gears and, in turn, the output torque generated by the rotation of the second bevel gear. Figure 4 and Figures 6 and 7 The first axial position of the screw 244 and / or FIG. 2 to Figure 5 The second axial position of the screw 246 can move the bevel gear. In some examples, another axial control mechanism moves the first bevel gear and / or the second bevel gear. After the completion of the frame 910, the operation 900 returns to the frame 906.

[0081] At block 912, the respective axial positions of the bevel gears are locked. For example, the first axial position screw 244 and the second axial position screw 246 may be pinned to the housing 104 or a sub-housing. Alternatively, the first axial position screw 244 and the second axial position screw 246 may be secured with a locking nut.

[0082] From the foregoing, it should be appreciated that example systems, apparatus, articles, and methods have been disclosed that enable steering torque to be transmitted to a pitman arm solely through rotational movement. Thus, the lack of linear movement in the steering systems disclosed herein enables the steering systems to occupy a smaller amount of space, which provides versatility in the vehicles in which the steering systems may be utilized and / or the areas in which the steering systems may be positioned. Furthermore, the steering systems disclosed herein generate sufficient power to steer heavier vehicles, such as trucks, while occupying a reduced space and utilizing electrical assistance.

[0083] The aforementioned examples of steering systems can be used with vehicles. While each of the example steering systems disclosed above has certain features, it should be understood that a particular feature of an example steering system is not necessarily required for use exclusively with that example. Rather, any feature described above and / or depicted in the accompanying figures can be combined with any example to supplement or replace any other feature of that example. Features of one example are not mutually exclusive with features of another example. Rather, the scope of this disclosure encompasses any combination of any features.

[0084] Example rotary steering systems are disclosed herein. Additional examples and combinations thereof include the following:

[0085] Example 1 includes a vehicle steering system, which includes: an input gear, which is fixed to one end of an input shaft; a first intermediate gear, which is fixed to a first pinion, the first intermediate gear is engaged with the input gear; a second intermediate gear, which is fixed to a second pinion, the second pinion is engaged with the first intermediate gear or a third intermediate gear; a motor, which is fixed to a third pinion, the third pinion is engaged with the second intermediate gear, the motor is used to rotate the first intermediate gear and the first pinion; a third gear, which is fixed to a shaft, the third gear is engaged with the first pinion, the third gear and the shaft will rotate with the rotation of the first intermediate gear; and a steering rocker arm, which is connected to the shaft, the steering rocker arm is used to connect to a straight tie rod to turn the wheels of the vehicle when the shaft rotates.

[0086] Example 2 includes the vehicle steering system of Example 1, wherein the first intermediate gear and the first pinion are aligned along a first rotational axis, wherein the third gear and the shaft are aligned along a second rotational axis, and wherein the first rotational axis intersects the second rotational axis.

[0087] Example 3 includes the vehicle steering system of Example 2, wherein the input gear is aligned along a third rotational axis that is substantially parallel to the first rotational axis.

[0088] Example 4 includes the vehicle steering system of Example 1, wherein the first pinion gear and the third gear are bevel gears.

[0089] Example 5 includes the vehicle steering system of Example 1, wherein the third gear is a sector gear.

[0090] Example 6 includes the vehicle steering system of Example 1, wherein the shaft includes a first end and a second end facing in opposite directions, wherein the third gear is positioned at the first end of the shaft and faces at least partially in the same direction as the first end of the shaft.

[0091] Example 7 includes the vehicle steering system of Example 6, wherein the pitman arm is coupled to the shaft at the second end of the shaft.

[0092] Example 8 includes a vehicle steering system as described in Example 1, wherein the shaft includes an opening aligned along the axis of rotation of the shaft, the vehicle steering system also including a locating screw positioned in the opening and a locking ring for coupling the locating screw to the shaft, the shaft being capable of axially moving with the locating screw.

[0093] Example 9 includes the vehicle steering system of Example 8, further comprising a washer positioned about the shaft and in contact with the locking ring.

[0094] Example 10 includes a vehicle steering system as described in Example 1, wherein the first intermediate gear includes an opening aligned along the rotational axis of the first intermediate gear, and the vehicle steering system also includes a positioning screw positioned in the opening and a locking ring for connecting the positioning screw to the first intermediate gear, and the first intermediate gear is capable of moving axially together with the positioning screw.

[0095] Example 11 includes the vehicle steering system of Example 1, further comprising a housing positioned about the shaft between the third gear and the pitman arm; and at least one roller bearing coupled to the housing and the shaft.

[0096] Example 12 includes the vehicle steering system of Example 11, wherein the housing includes a protruding edge that protrudes away from a body of the shaft about which the housing is positioned, and wherein the third gear is positioned over the protruding edge.

[0097] Example 13 includes a vehicle steering system comprising: an input shaft including an input gear; a first gear assembly including a first intermediate gear fixed to a first pinion, the first intermediate gear being engaged with the input gear; a second gear assembly including a second intermediate gear fixed to a second pinion, the second pinion being engaged with the first intermediate gear or a third intermediate gear; an output shaft including a third gear being engaged with the first pinion; a motor fixed to a third pinion, the third pinion being engaged with the second intermediate gear, the motor being configured to provide torque for rotating the input shaft, the first gear assembly, the second gear assembly, and the output shaft; and a pitman arm coupled to the output shaft, the pitman arm being configured to be coupled to a tie rod to rotate the wheels of the vehicle when the output shaft rotates.

[0098] Example 14 includes the vehicle steering system of Example 13, wherein the first gear assembly is aligned along a first rotational axis, wherein the output shaft is aligned along a second rotational axis, and wherein the first rotational axis intersects the second rotational axis.

[0099] Example 15 includes the vehicle steering system of Example 13, wherein the first gear assembly includes an opening aligned along the rotational axis of the first gear assembly, the vehicle steering system further comprising an axial position adjuster screw positioned in the opening and a locking ring for coupling the axial position adjuster screw to the first gear assembly.

[0100] Example 16 includes a vehicle steering system as described in Example 13, further comprising: a housing positioned around the output shaft between the third gear and the steering rocker arm; a first roller bearing coupled to the housing and the output shaft at a first end of the housing; and a second roller bearing coupled to the housing and the output shaft at a second end of the housing opposite the first end.

[0101] Example 17 includes an apparatus comprising: an input shaft including an input gear; a first gear set including a first intermediate gear and a first pinion, the first intermediate gear being engaged with the input gear; a second gear set including a second intermediate gear fixed to a second pinion, the second pinion being engaged with the first intermediate gear; an output shaft including a sector gear and a spline, the sector gear being positioned at a first end of the output shaft, the spline being positioned at a second end of the output shaft opposite to the first end, the sector gear being engaged with the first pinion; and a motor fixed to a third pinion, the third pinion being engaged with the second intermediate gear, the motor being used to provide torque to rotate the input shaft, the first gear set, the second gear set, and the output shaft.

[0102] Example 18 includes the apparatus of Example 17, further comprising a pitman arm coupled to the output shaft at the spline, the pitman arm for coupling to a tie rod to rotate a wheel of a vehicle when the output shaft rotates.

[0103] Example 19 includes the apparatus of Example 17, wherein the first gear set is aligned along a first rotational axis, wherein the output shaft is aligned along a second rotational axis, and wherein the first rotational axis intersects the second rotational axis.

[0104] Example 20 includes the apparatus of Example 17, wherein the first gear set includes an opening aligned along the rotational axis of the first gear set, the apparatus further comprising an axial adjuster screw positioned in the opening and coupled to the first gear set.

[0105] The appended claims are hereby incorporated by reference into this detailed description. Although certain example systems, devices, articles, and methods have been disclosed herein, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all systems, devices, articles, and methods that fully fall within the scope of the claims of this patent.

Claims

1. A vehicle steering system, comprising: An input gear fixed to one end of the input shaft; a first intermediate gear fixed to a first pinion gear, the first intermediate gear being engaged with the input gear; a second intermediate gear, the second intermediate gear being fixed to a second pinion gear, the second pinion gear being engaged with the first intermediate gear or the third intermediate gear; a motor fixed to a third pinion gear engaged with the second intermediate gear, the motor being used to rotate the first intermediate gear and the first pinion gear; a fourth gear fixed to the shaft, the fourth gear engaged with the first pinion, the fourth gear and the shaft to rotate with the rotation of the first intermediate gear; as well as A pitman arm is coupled to the shaft, the pitman arm being adapted to be coupled to a tie rod to rotate the wheels of the vehicle when the shaft rotates.

2. The vehicle steering system of claim 1, wherein the first intermediate gear and the first pinion are aligned along a first rotational axis, wherein the fourth gear and the shaft are aligned along a second rotational axis, and wherein the first rotational axis intersects the second rotational axis.

3. The vehicle steering system of claim 2, wherein the input gear is aligned along a third rotational axis that is substantially parallel to the first rotational axis.

4. A vehicle steering system as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the third pinion is aligned along a fourth rotational axis which is substantially parallel to the first rotational axis.

5. A vehicle steering system as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the second axis of rotation is substantially perpendicular to the first axis of rotation.

6. A vehicle steering system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first pinion gear and the fourth gear are bevel gears.

7. A vehicle steering system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the fourth gear is a sector gear.

8. A vehicle steering system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the shaft comprises a first end and a second end facing in opposite directions, wherein the fourth gear is located at the first end of the shaft and faces at least partially in the same direction as the first end of the shaft.

9. The vehicle steering system of claim 8, wherein the pitman arm is coupled to the shaft at the second end of the shaft.

10. A vehicle steering system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the shaft comprises an opening aligned along an axis of rotation of the shaft, the vehicle steering system further comprising: a positioning screw, the positioning screw being positioned in the opening; as well as A locking ring is used to couple the positioning screw to the shaft, the shaft being axially movable with the positioning screw.

11. The vehicle steering system of claim 10, further comprising a washer positioned about the shaft and in contact with the locking ring.

12. A vehicle steering system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first intermediate gear comprises an opening aligned along an axis of rotation of the first intermediate gear, the vehicle steering system further comprising: a positioning screw, the positioning screw being positioned in the opening; as well as A locking ring is used to couple the positioning screw to the first intermediate gear, the first intermediate gear being axially movable together with the positioning screw.

13. A vehicle steering system as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising: a housing positioned around the shaft between the fourth gear and the pitman arm; as well as At least one roller bearing is coupled to the housing and the shaft.

14. The vehicle steering system of claim 13, wherein the housing includes a protruding edge that protrudes away from a body of the shaft about which the housing is positioned, and wherein the fourth gear is positioned over the protruding edge.

15. A vehicle steering system as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising the third intermediate gear fixed to a fourth pinion gear, the second pinion gear being engaged with the third intermediate gear, the fourth pinion gear being engaged with the first intermediate gear.

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