Autonomous Vehicle Steering Variable Torque Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current autonomous vehicle steering systems lack flexibility in adapting to varying driving situations, particularly posing risks during high-rate or large-angle steering maneuvers, as they typically assume only two operational states (autonomous and manual) without adequate torque control.
Innovation Solution
A steering system with a variable coupling member between the steering actuator and mechanism, allowing adjustable torque transmission, combined with a clutch for selective coupling and decoupling of the steering wheel, enabling multiple operational modes to accommodate different driving scenarios and reducing operator risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a clutch is used to decouple the steering wheel from the steering mechanism during autonomous operation, then operator safety is improved by preventing high-rate or large-angle steering wheel rotation, but system flexibility deteriorates by limiting operational states to only autonomous and manual modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the traditional binary clutch mechanism with a variable coupling member that provides continuous, adjustable torque transmission. This allows the steering system to transition smoothly between different operational states rather than being restricted to discrete autonomous or manual modes, thereby maintaining operator safety while enhancing system flexibility and adaptability to various driving situations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by introducing a variable coupling member that can dynamically adjust the torque transmission parameter between the steering actuator and steering mechanism. This enables the system to modulate torque levels according to different driving scenarios, allowing for intermediate operational states that combine elements of both autonomous and manual operation, thus resolving the contradiction between safety and flexibility.
2Extent of automation
If the steering actuator solely controls steering during autonomous operation, then automation extent is improved, but system adaptability worsens by lacking torque control flexibility for different driving situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the steering actuator to dynamically adjust torque transmission levels through the variable coupling member. This allows the system to maintain high automation during normal autonomous operation while being capable of adapting torque control characteristics for different driving situations, such as parking maneuvers or evasive actions, thereby resolving the contradiction between automation extent and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the variable coupling member to modify torque transmission parameters based on driving conditions. This enables the autonomous steering control to transition between different torque levels and control characteristics, providing the flexibility needed for various driving situations while maintaining the core autonomous operation capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a variable coupling member is introduced to provide adjustable torque transmission, then system flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the variable coupling member to perform multiple functions: it provides adjustable torque transmission, enables intermediate operational states, and maintains compatibility with both autonomous and manual steering modes. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering comprehensive flexibility and adaptability across all operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements the intermediary principle by positioning the variable coupling member as a mediating component between the steering actuator and steering mechanism. This intermediary element provides the necessary torque control flexibility while maintaining the integrity of the existing steering system architecture, thereby managing complexity through a focused intermediate solution rather than redesigning the entire system.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering system for an autonomous vehicle includes a steering mechanism having a pinion gear and a rack, the steering mechanism being configured to translate rotation of the pinion gear into movement of the rack which is configured to affect the position of a steer tire of the autonomous vehicle, thereby affecting the lateral position of the autonomous vehicle; a steering wheel which provides a mechanical input to the pinion gear from an operator of the autonomous vehicle; a steering actuator which rotates to apply torque to the steering mechanism, thereby inducing movement of the rack which affects the position of the steer tire of the autonomous vehicle; and a variable coupling member operatively between the steering actuator and the steering mechanism which is configured to vary the torque that can be transmitted from the steering actuator to the steering mechanism.