Quick-Release Steering Ring Assembly for Portable Assisted Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing assisted steering devices are not optimized for agricultural applications, lacking in compactness, ease of use, and transportability, and often require complex installation and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A compact, quick-release assisted steering device comprising a ring assembly and a motor drive unit (MDU) with a brushless DC motor, allowing for easy attachment and detachment to a steering wheel, featuring a latching mechanism and anti-rotation pin for secure engagement, and a modular design for versatile use across different vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If existing assisted steering devices are used, then steering assistance function is provided, but the devices are bulky and difficult to transport
Solution Approach 1:
The steering device is divided into separate modular components including a motor drive unit and a ring assembly that can be detached from each other. This segmentation allows the motor drive unit to be easily removed and transported separately, reducing the effective weight that needs to be moved during transport while maintaining the complete functionality when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor drive unit is designed as a removable component that can be extracted from the ring assembly. This extraction capability allows the heavy motor component to be separated from the lighter ring assembly during transport, making the device easier to move and store while maintaining full functionality when reassembled.
2Ease of manufacture
If existing assisted steering devices are used, then steering assistance function is provided, but installation and maintenance are complex
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into standardized modular components with defined interfaces. The ring assembly and motor drive unit feature complementary coupling mechanisms that guide alignment and simplify connection, reducing installation complexity while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
A coupling mechanism serves as an intermediary between the ring assembly and motor drive unit, providing a standardized interface that simplifies both installation and maintenance. This intermediary component absorbs alignment tolerances and provides foolproof connection, reducing the skill level required for installation and maintenance tasks.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing assisted steering devices are used, then steering assistance function is provided, but they lack adaptability to different vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The ring assembly is designed with a universal coupling mechanism that can accommodate different motor drive units and steering wheel configurations. The standardized interface allows the same ring assembly to be adapted to various vehicle types and steering systems, enhancing versatility without requiring multiple specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow adaptation to different vehicle configurations. The dynamic nature of the coupling system enables it to accommodate variations in steering wheel size, shape, and mounting requirements across different vehicle platforms.
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 provides a lightweight, easy-to-use, and transportable steering assistance system that enhances operational efficiency and adaptability, ensuring secure attachment and reliable steering control with minimal space requirements, suitable for various agricultural implements.
Implementation Method 1
The motor drive unit (MDU) comprising a motor and a drive gear rotatably engaged with the motor
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is related to an assisted steering unit. In various implementations the assisted steering unit includes a motor drive unit and a ring assembly constructed and arranged to couple to and rotate a steering wheel. The assisted steering unit may include a ring assembly where the ring assembly includes a housing, a ring gear disposed within the housing, an anti-rotation pin operatively engaged with the housing. The assisted steering unit may also include a motor drive unit (MDU) including a motor and a drive gear rotatably engaged with the motor. The ring assembly and motor drive unit are constructed and arranged to be releasably engaged to each other.