Retractable Steering Column for Autonomous Driving
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Solution Overview
Problem
In vehicles equipped with autonomous driving assist systems, the steering wheel is not utilized during autonomous driving, leading to underutilization of the steering column and wheel, which could be repurposed for other functions, but existing systems lack efficient mechanisms to transition between autonomous and manual driving modes safely and conveniently.
Innovation Solution
A selectively autonomous steering column assembly that translates between a retracted position for autonomous driving and a driving position, enabling directional control by the driver, using a decoupling assembly, sensors, and adjustment mechanisms to ensure safe and convenient transition, allowing the steering wheel to be used for non-driving activities and reconfigured for manual steering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the steering column is retracted for autonomous driving, then cabin space and versatility are improved, but the ability to provide manual directional control is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The steering column assembly is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable between retracted and extended positions. The column adjustment assembly enables the steering column to transition between these states based on driving mode, allowing the system to adapt its physical configuration to meet different operational requirements - maximizing cabin space during autonomous driving while restoring manual steering capability when needed.
2Productivity
If the steering wheel is used for non-driving activities during autonomous driving, then productivity and comfort are improved, but safe transition to manual control becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting when the steering column is in the retracted position and automatically disabling the steering input device. This prevents accidental or unintended manual steering inputs during autonomous driving. When transitioning to manual mode, the system first extends the steering column to the driving position and then enables the steering input device, ensuring that manual control is only available when the column is properly positioned for safe operation.
3Ease of operation
If the steering input device is always enabled, then manual control is always available, but unauthorized steering during autonomous driving creates safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms through position sensors that continuously monitor the steering column position. Based on this feedback, the control system automatically determines whether to enable or disable the steering input device. When the column is detected in the retracted position, the steering input device is disabled to prevent unauthorized steering. When the column is in the driving position, the steering input device is enabled, allowing manual control. This feedback-based control ensures safety while maintaining operational flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A selectively autonomous steering column assembly includes a steering column shaft. Also included is a steering input device coupled to the steering column shaft. Further included is a column adjustment assembly configured to translate the steering column shaft between a retracted position and a driving position. Yet further included is at least one signal indicating when the steering column shaft is in the driving position. When steering column shaft is in the retracted position, directional control is automated, and when the steering column shaft is returned to the driving position as indicated by the at least one signal, direction control via the steering input device is enabled.