Modular Steering Wheel Assembly with Detachable Members
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current steering wheel assemblies require complete replacement for material wear or aesthetic changes, limiting driver customization and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A modular steering wheel assembly with a central hub and detachable steering wheel members, allowing for easy replacement of worn surfaces and aesthetic changes through connector elements and hub supports, enabling customization and enhanced user preferences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the entire steering wheel assembly is replaced to replace worn material or change appearance, then the steering wheel functionality is restored or updated, but the cost and complexity increase due to complete assembly replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The steering wheel assembly is divided into separate modular components: a central hub and multiple detachable steering wheel members. Each member can be independently removed and replaced by detaching from connector members on the hub, allowing selective replacement of only the worn or undesired member without replacing the entire assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The central hub is designed with multiple identical connector members that can accommodate different types of steering wheel members. This universal interface allows various members with different materials, shapes, and appearances to be interchangeably mounted on the same hub, providing versatility while maintaining a simple replacement process.
2Reliability
If the entire steering wheel assembly is replaced to refresh covering material, then the material wear issue is resolved, but time and resource efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The steering wheel is segmented into a permanent central hub and replaceable members. When material wear occurs on a member, only that specific member needs to be detached and replaced, significantly reducing the time and effort compared to replacing the entire assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows the central hub to be retained and reused while only the worn members are discarded and replaced. This selective replacement recovers the value of the hub structure, reducing overall replacement time and resources.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a sportier or different steering wheel style is desired, then driver preference is satisfied, but complete replacement of the existing assembly is required
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the steering wheel into interchangeable members, the design enables easy customization of appearance and style. Drivers can select from different member designs and swap them on the standardized hub without complex manufacturing or assembly processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal connector design on the hub allows multiple different member styles to be accommodated with the same mounting interface, making aesthetic customization simple and accessible without requiring specialized manufacturing for each style change.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular steering wheel assembly includes a central hub having a center support, a first support element extending outwardly from the center support in a first direction and a second support element extending outwardly from the center support in a second direction. The first support element includes a first connector member and a second connector member, and the second support element includes a first connector element and a second connector element. A first steering wheel member is detachably connected to at least one of the first connector member and the second connector member, and a second steering wheel member is detachably connected to at least one of the first connector element and the second connector element.