Off-Axis Steer-By-Wire Column for Compact Torque Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior steer-by-wire systems have complex structures, limited functionality, and are not adaptable to different vehicle requirements, necessitating a solution that reduces installation space while improving ergonomics and reducing friction and inertia.
Innovation Solution
A steer-by-wire steering system with a torque feedback device using an electric machine and a unique steering system support column design featuring an off-axis and aligned section, integrated with a steering wheel rotation limiting device, which eliminates the need for a reduction gear train and shaft, allowing for compact installation and adjustable ergonomics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional mechanical components are used for transferring steering commands, then mechanical connection is simple, but installation space is large and adaptability to different vehicle requirements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical steering components with an electro-mechanical steer-by-wire system. The steering column includes an electric machine (motor) that converts electrical signals to mechanical rotation, eliminating the need for traditional mechanical linkages and enabling flexible adaptation to different vehicle configurations through electronic control.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering column is divided into multiple functional segments: a first section with an electric machine for generating steering torque, a second section with a reduction gear mechanism, and a third section connecting to the steering gear. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates adaptability to different vehicle requirements.
2Reliability
If reduction gear train and shaft are used, then mechanical torque transmission is reliable, but friction and inertia increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a reduction gear mechanism with optimized gear ratios to transmit torque from the electric machine to the steering gear. By carefully selecting the reduction ratio, the system achieves reliable torque transmission while minimizing the inertial effects and friction losses associated with gear engagement, balancing reliability with energy efficiency.
3Area of stationary object
If steering system is designed for compact installation, then installation space is reduced, but adjustability to driver ergonomics is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The steering column incorporates adjustable features that allow dynamic reconfiguration for different driver positions and preferences. The column height, tilt angle, and radial position can be adjusted within a compact footprint, enabling the system to maintain small installation space while providing comprehensive ergonomic adaptability through movable and adjustable components.
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 optimizes installation space, reduces friction and inertia, and enhances adaptability to different vehicle requirements while maintaining robustness and reliability, providing a structurally optimized configuration for steer-by-wire systems.
Implementation Method 1
a torque feedback device including an electric machine having a rotor and a stator with stator windings
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a steering system comprising a rotatable steering wheel hub; a steering system support column including an off-axis section and an aligned section that are connected by a connection portion. The steering wheel hub is rotatably mounted on the aligned section, while the off-axis section is axially spaced from the steering wheel hub. The steering system comprises a torque feedback device including an electric machine having a rotor and a stator, the rotor being attached to the steering wheel hub so as to be rotatable with the steering wheel hub about the axis of rotation, and the stator being non-rotatably fixed to the aligned section of the steering system support column.