Off-Axis Steer-by-Wire Column With Torque Feedback End-Stop
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Prior steer-by-wire steering systems have complex structures, limited functionality, and are not adaptable to different vehicle requirements, with a need for reduced installation space and improved ergonomics.
Innovation Solution
A steer-by-wire steering system featuring a torque feedback device with an outer rotor electric machine and an inner stator, integrated with a steering system support column having an off-axis section and an aligned section, which reduces friction and inertia, and includes a steering wheel rotation limiting device for mechanical end-stop functionality without a natural end-stop structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional mechanical components are used for transferring steering commands, then direct mechanical connection is achieved, but the structure becomes complex and installation space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical steering components with an electro-mechanical actuator that receives steering commands electronically. The actuator includes a motor unit with stator and rotor, eliminating complex mechanical linkages while maintaining precise steering control through electronic signal transmission and motor-driven mechanical actuation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If steering systems are designed with fixed installation positions, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to different vehicle requirements decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an adjustable steering column that can be positioned at multiple locations along the vehicle's centerline. The support column structure allows the steering assembly to be dynamically repositioned to accommodate different vehicle configurations and driver ergonomics requirements, while maintaining structural stability through rigid mounting options at each position.
3Ease of operation
If mechanical end-stop structures are implemented, then rotation limiting functionality is achieved, but the natural end-stop structure increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a self-contained rotation limiting device that mechanically restricts the steering wheel's rotational range. The device includes a housing mounted on the support column, a movable element that engages with the steering shaft, and spring-loaded contact elements that provide automatic end-stop feedback without requiring complex external mechanical structures.
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, enhances driver ergonomics, reduces friction and inertia, and provides a robust and reliable mechanical end-stop function, improving the adaptability and efficiency of the steering system.
Implementation Method 1
a torque feedback device with an outer rotor electric machine and an inner stator
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a steering system (10) comprising a rotatable steering wheel hub (14); a steering system support column (24) including an off-axis section (28) and an aligned section (26) that are integrally formed and connected by a connection portion (30). The steering wheel hub (14) is rotatably mounted on the aligned section (26), while the off-axis section (28) is axially spaced from the steering wheel hub (14). The steering system (10) comprises a torque feedback device (44) including an electric machine having a rotor (46) and a stator (48), the rotor (46) being attached to the steering wheel hub (14) so as to be rotatable with the steering wheel hub (14) about the axis of rotation (A), and the stator (48) being non-rotatably fixed to the aligned section (26) of the steering system support column (24).