Pivoting Steering Column Lock for Safe Vehicle Entry and Exit
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Steer-by-Wire type steering systems, the absence of a mechanical link between the steering wheel and the wheels complicates getting in and out of the vehicle, as the steering wheel is not blocked when the ignition is off, posing a risk of injury and making it difficult for the driver to use as a handle.
Innovation Solution
A steering system with a pivotable steering column and a force feedback module that calculates and applies forces to guide the steering wheel to a predetermined position, allowing safe entry and exit by blocking the wheel in this position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the steering wheel is made pivotable to serve as a handle for driver entry/exit, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates because the wheel may turn uncontrollably when ignition is off
Solution Approach 1:
The steering column is made dynamically adjustable through a force feedback module that can pivot the steering column to different positions. The system transitions between a first position for normal steering operation and a second position that optimizes driver entry/exit, allowing the same component to serve multiple functions safely
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the positional parameter of the steering column based on detected driver needs. When a driver approaches, the column pivots to a predetermined position optimized for handling, and when the driver is seated, it returns to the normal steering position, thus adapting the geometry to the operational context
2Reliability
If the steering column is blocked in a fixed position to prevent unintended turning, then the reliability is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates because the wheel cannot be positioned optimally for driver entry/exit
Solution Approach 1:
The steering column transitions from a static fixed-position design to a dynamic system that can pivot between multiple positions. The force feedback module enables the column to adapt its position based on whether the driver needs to enter/exit the vehicle or perform normal steering operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary positioning of the steering column to a predetermined optimal position before the driver actually needs to enter or exit the vehicle. This anticipatory action ensures the wheel is already in the correct position, eliminating the need for manual adjustment while maintaining safety
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
Enables safe and easy entry and exit by ensuring the steering wheel is in an optimal position for the driver to lean on without risk of injury, acting as a handle.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator capable of applying said force to the steering column so as to cause the steering column to pivot about the longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 2
a force feedback module fixed to the steering column, said force feedback module comprising a controller capable of calculating a force and an actuator capable of applying said force to the steering column
Data Source
AI summary
A system for assisting a driver to get in and out of a vehicle, including a steering device with: a steering column having a longitudinal axis about which the steering column may pivot, said column being connected to a steering wheel, and a force feedback module fixed to the steering column, said module including a controller capable of calculating a force and an actuator capable of applying said force to the steering column so as to cause the steering column to pivot about the longitudinal axis to guide the steering column connected to the steering wheel in a predetermined position when a driver is getting in and out, lock the steering column connected to the steering wheel in the position predetermined when a driver is getting in and out. A vehicle includes said system and a method for assisting a driver to get in and out of the vehicle.