Autonomous Steering Apparatus with Nested Drive Shaft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current autonomous driving systems face challenges in effectively controlling vehicle steering and braking without human intervention, particularly in accurately detecting and responding to road conditions and traffic signals.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous driving system and steering apparatus are developed, comprising a support bracket, steering drive shaft, upper bracket, power transmission portion, and shaft drive member, along with a steering driver and encoder, which work in conjunction with a deceleration control apparatus to control the vehicle's steering and braking systems using sensors and a controller for autonomous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a traditional steering control structure is used, then the structure is simple, but the autonomous driving control precision and stability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The steering apparatus is divided into multiple functional modules: support bracket with lower reception portion, upper bracket with upper reception portion, power transmission portion with groove structure, and shaft drive member. Each segment performs a specific function, allowing precise control while maintaining modular simplicity in manufacturing and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The shaft drive member is rotatably received within the power transmission portion, which itself is integrated into the upper bracket. The steering drive shaft passes through both the lower and upper reception portions, creating a nested arrangement that maximizes space utilization and ensures precise power transmission from the driver to the steering system.
2Reliability
If the steering drive shaft is directly connected to the steering system, then the structure is simple, but the power transmission stability and control accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The power transmission portion with its groove structure serves as an intermediary mechanism between the steering drive shaft and the shaft drive member. The groove structure engages with corresponding features on the shaft drive member, providing stable power transmission while allowing for precise rotational control and eliminating direct rigid connection issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The shaft drive member is designed to rotate within the power transmission portion, creating a dynamic connection that allows for smooth power transmission. This rotational capability within constrained grooves provides both stability through guidance and flexibility through controlled movement, enhancing overall system reliability.
3Volume of moving object
If the support bracket volume is reduced, then the space occupation is minimized, but the reception portion depth and structural strength are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket is designed with a lower reception portion that is recessed downward by a preset depth only where needed to receive and secure the steering drive shaft. The rest of the bracket maintains a compact form factor. This localized deepening provides necessary structural support and shaft retention while minimizing overall bracket volume and space occupation.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of increasing bracket volume horizontally, the design utilizes the vertical dimension by recessing the lower reception portion downward. This vertical deepening allows the bracket to accommodate the steering drive shaft and provide structural strength without increasing the horizontal footprint, thus maintaining compact overall dimensions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables stable and efficient autonomous driving by accurately controlling steering and braking, enhancing system stability and safety by integrating sensors and controllers to manage vehicle states and respond to dynamic road conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a shaft drive member provided in the power transmission portion and connected to the steering drive shaft
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an autonomous driving system and an autonomous steering apparatus. An autonomous steering apparatus includes: a support bracket having a preset volume, and formed at an inner upper portion thereof with a lower reception portion having a groove or hole structure recessed downward by a preset depth; and a steering drive shaft having a preset length, and having a lower end rotatably provided in the lower reception portion and an upper end connected to a steering system of a vehicle.