Steer-by-Wire Feedback Actuator Relocation Frees Steering Space

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing steer-by-wire steering systems require significant installation space in the region of the steering column and close to the human/vehicle interface, limiting the availability of space for other vehicle components.

Innovation Solution

The feedback actuator is positioned outside the steering column and support unit, allowing for a decoupled construction that frees up installation space and enhances flexibility in design, with the actuator disposed in front of the support unit or on the bulkhead, and utilizing a modular construction with separate modules for increased adaptability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the feedback actuator is integrated in the steering column or steering wheel, then the restoring torque function is provided, but significant installation space is required in the region of the steering column close to the human/vehicle interface

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverestoring torque functionVSAvoidinstallation space in steering column region

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The feedback actuator is extracted from the steering column and relocated to the bulkhead. The actuator remains functionally integrated through electrical connections and mechanical coupling via the steering shaft, but physically separates the space-consuming component from the steering column region, thereby resolving the contradiction between providing restoring torque function and minimizing installation space in the steering column area.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The steering system is segmented into separate functional modules: the steering column retains the steering wheel and steering shaft, while the feedback actuator is placed in a separate location (bulkhead). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and reduces space requirements in the critical steering column region while maintaining the restoring torque function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Area of stationary object

If the feedback actuator is positioned outside the steering column, then installation space in the steering column region is freed up, but the actuator requires alternative mounting locations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation space in steering column regionVSAvoidmounting location flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The bulkhead serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the vehicle, acts as a mounting surface for the feedback actuator, and facilitates the routing of steering shaft and electrical connections. This multi-functionality allows the actuator to be positioned outside the steering column while maintaining adaptability and reducing space requirements in the steering column region.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a modular construction with separate modules is used, then adaptability and flexibility in design are enhanced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedesign flexibilityVSAvoidmodular construction complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The steering system is divided into modular components: the steering column assembly, the feedback actuator, and the bulkhead mounting structure. Each module can be independently designed, manufactured, and assembled, enhancing adaptability and flexibility in design while managing complexity through standardized interfaces and connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

This configuration reduces the space requirement near the steering column, allowing for more flexible installation and adaptation to different vehicles, while maintaining functionality and enabling additional design possibilities for motor vehicles.

Implementation Method 1

a feedback actuator (6), in particular disposed outside the steering column (2), said feedback actuator (6) being configured to apply a torque to the steering shaft (4)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectric motor torque conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12397848B2Steer-by-wire steering system having a feedback actuator outside the steering column

Publication Date: 2025.08.26 THYSSENKRUPP PRESTA AG

AI summary

A steer-by-wire steering system for a motor vehicle may include a steering column having a support unit and a steering shaft rotatably mounted in the steering column, a steering handle disposed in a rotationally fixed manner on the steering shaft, and a feedback actuator that is configured to apply a torque to the steering shaft. The feedback actuator here may be disposed outside the support unit, as a result of which installation space is available in the region of the steering column. The feedback actuator of the steer-by-wire steering system may in some cases be disposed on a bulkhead of a motor vehicle body.