Compact Independent Steering Assembly With Parallel Motor-Reducer Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power steering systems are complex, prone to malfunctions due to oil leaks, and can lead to unsafe vehicle control, while compact steering devices for small vehicles face space constraints with motors protruding from wheels or above the floor.
Innovation Solution
An independent steering device with a parallel arrangement of a motor and reducer, using a harmonic drive reducer to decelerate rotational motion, allowing precise control and compact design by positioning the motor and reducer parallel to each other, with the rotating shafts penetrating through a bracket.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a motor and reducer are arranged in series (conventional arrangement), then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the length of the steering device increases causing it to protrude above the wheel or above the vehicle floor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a series arrangement (one-dimensional linear layout) to a parallel arrangement (two-dimensional spatial layout) of the motor and reducer. This dimensional change allows both components to be positioned side-by-side, significantly reducing the overall length of the steering device in the axial direction while maintaining functional connectivity through the power transmission member.
2Volume of moving object
If the steering device is made compact to avoid protruding, then the interior space is improved, but the heat dissipation capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the steering device into modular components (motor, reducer, power transmission member, knuckle) with defined spatial relationships. This segmentation allows optimized positioning where the parallel arrangement creates internal spaces and pathways for heat dissipation, while the compact overall volume is maintained through efficient spatial utilization.
3Reliability
If a conventional power steering system with pump and gearbox is used, then the steering function is achieved, but the system complexity increases and reliability decreases due to oil leaks and malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional hydraulic power steering system (with pump, gearbox, and oil circulation) with an electric motor-driven system. This substitution eliminates the need for hydraulic fluid and associated leakage issues, while the direct coupling of the motor to the knuckle through a simplified reducer and power transmission member reduces mechanical complexity and potential failure points.
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
Enables precise steering control and compact design, reducing the length of the steering device, allowing it to be installed without protruding above the wheel, thus facilitating a low-floor platform and improving heat dissipation.
Implementation Method 1
a power transmission member connecting the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft and configured to transmit a rotational force between the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft
Implementation Method 2
The reducer may be a harmonic drive reducer
Data Source
AI summary
An independent steering device includes: a knuckle coupled to a wheel; and a driving unit having the knuckle rotatably coupled to at least a portion thereof and providing a driving force for rotating the knuckle. The driving unit may include: a motor having a first rotating shaft; a reducer having a second rotating shaft and coupled to the knuckle; and a power transmission member connecting the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft and configured to transmit rotational force between the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft. The motor and the reducer may be disposed so that the first and second rotating shafts are parallel.