Integrated Steering Column Auto-Steer for Easier Vehicle Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing auto-steering systems for vehicles require multiple separate components for GPS data reception, control, and user interfaces, leading to complexity, high costs, and difficult installations.
Innovation Solution
An integrated auto-steer system that combines processing components into a single unit, including a steering wheel actuator with a gear assembly, motor, and control system within a single enclosure, which receives GNSS and IMU signals to automatically steer vehicles along predetermined paths, with a user-friendly interface for manual override.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple separate components are used for GPS data reception, control, and user interface, then system functionality is complete, but device complexity increases and installation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines GPS receiver, control unit, user interface, and steering actuator into a single integrated housing unit. This merging of previously separate components reduces system complexity and installation difficulty while maintaining complete autonomous steering functionality through internal integration of all necessary subsystems
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate components are used for GPS data reception, control, and user interface, then system functionality is complete, but ease of manufacture decreases and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates all control components including GPS receiver, microprocessor, memory, and user interface into a single housing that attaches to the steering column. This consolidation simplifies manufacturing processes and reduces component assembly steps while preserving full autonomous steering capability through integrated circuit board designs and unified power distribution
3Ease of operation
If multiple separate components are used for GPS data reception, control, and user interface, then system functionality is complete, but installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a single integrated control unit that attaches directly to the steering column, eliminating the need to install and wire multiple separate components. The unified housing contains all electronics, mechanical actuators, and user interface elements, allowing installation through simple attachment procedures while maintaining complete autonomous steering functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the steering control system into a self-contained modular unit that interfaces with the vehicle's existing steering column. This segmentation allows the integrated system to be installed as a single module without disrupting existing vehicle systems, reducing installation complexity while providing full autonomous steering capability
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 solution simplifies the system, reduces costs, and facilitates easier installation by integrating all necessary components into a single unit, providing efficient and cost-effective automatic steering for vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
an auto-steer motor that can be installed on the steering shaft
Implementation Method 2
These systems use electric motors and drive mechanisms to turn the steering wheel through friction wheels
Data Source
AI summary
A steering wheel actuator is attached to a steering wheel column. The steering wheel actuator includes a gear assembly for turning a steering wheel on the steering wheel column, a motor for rotating the gear assembly, and an enclosure. A control system in the enclosure controls the motor to automatically steer the vehicle. The control system may receive global navigation satellite system (GNSS) signals from a GNSS antenna and GNSS receiver located in the enclosure and automatically steer the vehicle based on the GNSS signals. The control system also may receive inertial measurement unit (IMU) signals from an IMU located in the enclosure and automatically steer the vehicle based on the IMU signals. The control system also may receive user input signals from a user interface, and automatically steer the vehicle based on the user input signals.