Electric Steering Mechanism for Axle Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering devices for axle units, particularly in semi-trailers and central axle trailers, require high installation effort and complex balancing due to the use of hydraulic or pneumatic systems, limiting design flexibility and increasing assembly complexity.
Innovation Solution
A steering device with an electric drive unit that connects directly to the steering arm element, allowing for simplified installation and operation, featuring an integrated electric motor and gear system for precise wheel alignment, and a control device for managing relative angles between trailers and tractors, with redundancy for reliable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydraulic or pneumatic systems are used for steering, then steering force and reliability are improved, but installation effort and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces hydraulic or pneumatic steering systems with an electric drive unit that directly connects to the steering arm element. This substitution eliminates complex fluid systems while maintaining steering functionality through direct electric motor-driven rotation of the steering arm.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes the hydraulic or pneumatic components from the steering system, retaining only the essential steering function through a simplified electric drive mechanism. This extraction eliminates the need for oil volume balancing and complex fluid management.
2Power
If hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders are used, then steering power is improved, but assembly complexity and installation effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders with an electric drive unit comprising an electric motor and gear mechanism. This substitution provides sufficient steering power while enabling straightforward assembly through direct mounting on the axle assembly without complex fluid connections.
3Manufacturing precision
If complex steering systems are used, then steering precision is improved, but adaptability and design flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electric drive unit is designed as a universal component that can be integrated into various axle assembly configurations without requiring system-specific customization. The standardized design maintains wheel alignment precision while adapting to different vehicle types and steering requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering system incorporates adjustable steering angles and dynamic control capabilities through the electric drive unit, allowing precise wheel alignment while maintaining flexibility for different operating conditions and vehicle configurations.
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 electric drive system reduces assembly complexity, supports high loads, and allows for flexible design without influencing vehicle structure, providing reliable and efficient steering with reduced maintenance needs and improved leverage ratios for optimal performance.
Implementation Method 1
a steering device (1) with an electric drive device (3) that can be connected to the steering arm element (7) for aligning the steering arm element (7)
Implementation Method 2
a gear device (23) for power transmission or transformation of the electric drive unit (3) into a translational movement
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a steering mechanism for an axle unit that includes a pivotable steering arm element, in particular for an axle unit of a semitrailer or single-axle trailer, said steering mechanism comprising an electric drive unit, which can be connected to the steering arm element, for orienting the steering arm element.