Steering Wheel Connector With Sliding Contact Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automotive simulators require separate mechanical and electrical connections for the steering wheel, making installation and removal cumbersome, aesthetically unsatisfactory, and posing a risk of entanglement, while also being difficult to produce with high accuracy and authenticity.
Innovation Solution
A steering wheel adapter system with sliding adapter elements that establish both mechanical and electrical connections between the steering wheel and the simulator's steering axle in a single operation, using electrical contact surfaces and a sliding mechanism perpendicular to the axle, ensuring secure and intuitive attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate mechanical and electrical connectors are used for the steering wheel, then the electrical connection can be established, but the installation and removal process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mechanical connector and electrical connector into a single integrated connector assembly. The mechanical connector provides structural support and positioning, while the electrical connector establishes electrical contact between the steering wheel and simulator. This merging eliminates the need for separate connection operations, allowing both mechanical and electrical connections to be made simultaneously in a single sliding motion, thereby improving ease of operation and reducing time loss.
2Ease of manufacture
If separate electrical cords are used for steering wheel controls, then electrical connection is achieved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates and entanglement risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is integrated within the mechanical connector housing, eliminating the need for exposed electrical cords. The electrical contacts are positioned to engage automatically when the mechanical connector is assembled, allowing electrical connection without external cords. This integration removes the harmful factors of dangling cords that cause entanglement risks and aesthetic degradation.
3Ease of operation
If conventional separate connectors are used, then electrical connection is established, but the connection process lacks intuitiveness and requires multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated connector design allows the user to perform both mechanical assembly and electrical connection in a single intuitive sliding motion. The connector features a straightforward insert-and-slide mechanism that naturally guides the steering wheel into the correct position, automatically engaging both mechanical and electrical components simultaneously. This reduces the connection process from multiple discrete steps to a single intuitive action.
Data Source
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AI summary
A steering wheel adapter system for an automotive simulator includes a first adapter element formed in a distal end of the steering wheel and a second adapter element formed in a distal end of a steering axle of the automotive simulator. The first adapter element comprises a first electrical contact surface and the second adapter element comprises a second electrical contact surface. The first and second adapter elements are configured to slide against each other along a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the steering axle, until a seated position has been reached wherein a central axis of the steering wheel is aligned with a central axis of the steering axle, and the first and second electrical contact surfaces make contact with each other to establish an electrical connection. A steering wheel having a first adapter element and a steering axle having a second adapter element are also described.