Heavy Vehicle Steering System Switching Between Normal and Crab Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heavy goods vehicles face challenges in providing both normal steering mode and crab steering mode in a structurally simple and cost-effective manner while meeting legal requirements, as previous solutions are either too expensive or do not comply with regulatory standards.
Innovation Solution
A heavy goods vehicle with a steering system that includes rotary steering elements, separate steering power introduction units for normal and crab modes, and a coupling device to switch between modes, using rigid connecting elements for mechanical power transfer between axles, simplifying the structure and satisfying legal requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable connecting elements are used to transfer steering power between axles, then both normal steering mode and crab steering mode can be achieved, but the structural complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The steering system is segmented into two independent subsystems: a normal steering mode subsystem with connecting elements for differential steering, and a crab steering mode subsystem with separate connecting elements for parallel steering. Each subsystem operates independently, allowing the vehicle to switch between steering modes without requiring complex adjustable mechanisms. The rigid connecting elements in each subsystem are optimized for their specific function, reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering system achieves multi-functionality by providing dedicated connecting elements for each steering mode. The normal steering mode connecting elements enable differential steering angles between axles for road travel, while the crab steering mode connecting elements enable parallel steering angles for maneuvering. Both subsystems use similar rigid connecting element designs, allowing the system to perform multiple functions without requiring complex adjustable mechanisms, thus reducing manufacturing cost and structural complexity.
2Reliability
If separate steering systems for normal and crab modes are implemented, then legal requirements for normal steering are met, but the manufacturing cost and structural simplicity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The steering system is divided into two independent subsystems: a normal steering mode subsystem that complies with legal requirements for road-worthy vehicles, and a crab steering mode subsystem for maneuvering. Each subsystem has its own dedicated connecting elements and steering power introduction units, allowing the normal steering subsystem to be optimized for legal compliance while the crab steering subsystem provides additional functionality. This segmentation enables the vehicle to meet regulatory standards without compromising maneuverability capabilities.
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 solution enables both normal and crab steering modes in a structurally simple and cost-effective way, ensuring compliance with legal regulations and providing efficient maneuvering capabilities while maintaining roadworthiness.
Implementation Method 1
a combustion engine with a hydraulic pump is arranged, which pump provides the hydraulic volumetric flow for driving the hydraulic motors
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a heavy goods vehicle in which the steering system (12) comprises, in addition to a normal steering mode steering device (26) that transfers steering power purely mechanically by means of connecting rods (34) from axle to axle, a crab steering mode steering device (28) that also transfers steering power purely mechanically by means of connecting rods (46) from axle to axle. The individual wheel assemblies (14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24) can be connected by means of coupling devices (56) either to the normal steering mode steering device (26) or to the crab steering mode steering device (28).