Rotating-Sliding Steering Frame for Ergonomic Collision Safety
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steer-by-wire steering systems in motor vehicles do not allow for ergonomic adjustments to accommodate drivers with varying anthropometric parameters and fail to meet safety requirements for automatic wheel movement during collisions.
Innovation Solution
A steering system with a frame that rotates and slides relative to the vehicle frame, incorporating a steering shaft that adjusts longitudinally and vertically, and a collapsible mechanism for safety, controlled by motors and actuators to adapt to driver needs and simulate mechanical steering feel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the steering wheel position is made adjustable to accommodate different drivers, then driver comfort and ergonomics are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The steering system employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the steering wheel to move automatically in response to detected collision forces or driver preferences. The system transitions from a static steering wheel position to a dynamically adjustable one, resolving the contradiction by automating the adjustment process rather than requiring complex manual adjustment mechanisms for each driver.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering wheel incorporates self-adjusting capabilities through force sensors and automated actuators that detect collision forces or driver input and automatically reposition the steering wheel without manual intervention. This self-service mechanism reduces the complexity of manual adjustment systems while maintaining driver comfort and safety requirements.
2Reliability
If the steering wheel is made collapsible for safety during collisions, then driver safety is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The steering system incorporates preliminary safety mechanisms through force sensors that detect collision forces before significant damage occurs. When a collision is detected, the system preemptively activates actuators to collapse or reposition the steering wheel away from the driver, preventing injury rather than responding after the fact. This preliminary anti-action approach simplifies the overall safety mechanism by focusing on prevention and early response.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical collapsible steering wheel mechanisms with an electronic control system using sensors and actuators. Instead of complex mechanical springs or latches designed to collapse the steering wheel, the system uses electronic force detection and controlled actuation to achieve the same safety effect with reduced mechanical complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the steering system includes automatic adjustment mechanisms, then adaptability to different drivers is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The steering system employs universal components such as force sensors and linear actuators that serve multiple functions: detecting driver presence, measuring collision forces, and controlling steering wheel position. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each adjustment task, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining high adaptability to different drivers and safety requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering system for a motor vehicle comprising a steering wheel capable of rotating about a first rotational axis, a sensory system adapted to detect a physical quantity associated with the angular position of the steering wheel about the first rotational axis, actuator devices adapted to rotate one or more wheels of the motor vehicle about respective steering axes, and an electronic control unit operatively connected to the sensory system and to the actuator devices is disclosed. The steering system further comprises a frame operatively connected to the motor vehicle, a body supported by the frame and capable of sliding with respect thereto parallel to the first rotational axis, and a steering shaft to which the steering wheel is fixed and which is supported by the body. The frame can rotate with respect to the motor vehicle about a second rotational axis which is transverse to the first rotational axis.