Integrated Auto-Steer Controller for Simplified Vehicle Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle steering systems require multiple separate components for GPS data reception, processing, and user interface, leading to complexity, high cost, and difficult installation.
Innovation Solution
An integrated auto-steer system that combines a steering wheel actuator, control system, GNSS receiver, IMU, and user interface into a single enclosure, simplifying installation and reducing costs by eliminating separate housings and cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate components are used for GPS data reception, control, and user interface, then each component can be optimized independently, but the overall system complexity increases and installation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the GPS receiver, control unit, and user interface into a single integrated steering controller housing. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate components and their interconnecting cables, directly reducing system complexity while maintaining the ability to optimize each functional module independently within the unified structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used for GPS data reception, control, and user interface, then component selection is flexible, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated design consolidates GPS reception, control processing, and user interface functions into one pre-assembled unit that can be installed as a single component, dramatically reducing installation time and complexity while still allowing flexible selection of the complete system specification to match application requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The single steering controller housing is designed to perform multiple functions (GPS signal reception, signal processing, steering control, and user interaction) within one unified structure, making it a universal component that replaces multiple specialized components and simplifies the overall installation process.
3Reliability
If separate housings and cables are used for each component, then component protection is optimized, but overall system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single protective housing that encloses all critical components (GPS receiver, control unit, interface elements) in one unified protective structure. This eliminates the need for multiple separate housings and their associated mounting hardware and cables, reducing overall system cost while providing comprehensive protection for all integrated components.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus for controlling a steering wheel comprises: a frame assembly configured to attach to a steering wheel column, a drive assembly located in the frame assembly, a motor coupled to the drive assembly, and a control system attached to the frame assembly including a user interface and a motor controller, the motor controller sending commands to the motor to turn the steering wheel based on inputs received from the user interface.