Single-Stalk Steering Assembly With Locking Ring Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering systems in vehicles lack flexibility and adjustability, particularly for users with limited hand functionality, making it difficult to achieve a comfortable and efficient steering experience.
Innovation Solution
A single stalk steering assembly that includes a base coupled with a steering shaft, a rotatable ring with a locking member, and a stalk assembly with an adjustable handle. The handle is adjustable in height and tilt, and the ring can rotate independently of the base, allowing for customizable steering effort and improved accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional steering wheel is used, then steering control is achieved, but flexibility and adjustability are limited for users with limited hand functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The steering assembly allows dynamic adjustment of the handle position along the stalk assembly, enabling users to customize the steering configuration according to their specific needs and hand functionality. The handle can be positioned at multiple locations along the stalk, providing adaptability while maintaining ease of operation through straightforward positioning adjustments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the ring is free to rotate independent of the base, then adjustability of steering effort is improved, but rotational stability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The ring is designed to be rotatable independent of the base, allowing dynamic adjustment of steering effort and position. This dynamic capability enables users to customize the steering configuration while the system maintains stability through the adjustable locking mechanism that secures the ring at desired positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The independent rotation of the ring allows change in steering parameters such as effort and position. By enabling the ring to rotate independently, the system allows users to adjust steering effort to match their capabilities while maintaining overall system stability through the adjustable locking mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If the handle position is fixed, then structural simplicity is maintained, but user comfort and accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stalk assembly is segmented into multiple sections, allowing the handle to be positioned at different locations along the stalk. This segmentation provides adjustability for user comfort and accessibility while adding only minimal structural complexity through the segmented design and associated positioning mechanism.
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 single stalk steering assembly enhances user comfort and accessibility by allowing for customizable steering effort and position, improving visibility and ease of use, especially for users with limited hand functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The ring is mounted to the base with a set of bearings that allow the ring to rotate independent of rotation of the base
Data Source
AI summary
A steering control assembly including: a base configured to couple with a steering shaft; a ring mounted to the base and configured to rotate independent of the base; a locking member movable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, in the locked configuration the locking member locks the ring to the base to restrict rotation of the ring independent of the base, and in the unlocked configuration the ring is free to rotate independent of the base; and a handle mounted to the ring and rotatable with the ring independent of the base when the locking member is in the unlocked configuration to adjust a radial position of the handle relative to the base, the handle configured to be grasped by a user to rotate the steering control assembly and the steering shaft when the locking member is in the locked configuration.