Power Steering Motor Axial Compactness via Nested Sensor and Fastener

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional power steering apparatuses require a reduction in axial dimension to enhance compactness and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A power steering apparatus is designed with a rotational sensor positioned between the motor element and the steering housing, and a fixation member that overlaps the sensor radially, allowing for a more compact configuration by utilizing dead space and simplifying the motor housing structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If the rotational sensor is positioned between the motor element and steering housing, then the axial dimension is reduced, but the sensor may interfere with the fixation member arrangement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaxial dimensionVSAvoidspatial arrangement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixation member is arranged to overlap the rotational sensor in the axial direction and positioned radially outside the sensor. This spatial reconfiguration in multiple dimensions (axial overlap with radial offset) allows both the sensor and fixation member to coexist without interference, resolving the contradiction between reduced axial dimension and proper fixation member arrangement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The fixation member is positioned such that its projection overlaps with the rotational sensor in the axial direction, creating a nested spatial relationship where components occupy overlapping axial spaces but are separated radially. This nesting approach maximizes space utilization and reduces the overall axial dimension while maintaining functional integrity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS10196082B2Power steering apparatus
Publication Date: 2019.02.05 KNORR BREMSE COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SYSTEMS JAPAN LTD
  • US10196082B2 patent drawing
  • US10196082B2 patent drawing
  • US10196082B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides a power steering apparatus capable of realizing a reduction in an axial dimension of the apparatus. A resolver 16, which detects a rotational position of a motor rotor 13, is provided between a motor element 15 and a steering housing 6 in a direction of an x axis. A bolt 19, which fixes a motor housing 17 to the steering housing 6, is provided so as to overlap the resolver 16 in the direction of the x axis radially outside the resolver 16.