Stationary-Hub Steering Column for Shaftless Steer-By-Wire
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional steering systems require mechanical connections and rotating steering wheel hubs, leading to complex assemblies and complications with airbag systems, crash stroke systems, and wiring in steer-by-wire systems, especially with stationary wheel hubs.
Innovation Solution
A steer-by-wire steering column assembly with a stationary wheel hub that eliminates the need for steering shafts and rotates only the rim and motor components, allowing simplified design and routing of wires through a central passage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical connection with steering shafts is used to connect the steering wheel to the output steering gear, then the steering system achieves reliable mechanical power transmission, but the assembly complexity increases and adjustment of road wheels becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the steering shafts and mechanical power transmission components from the steering column assembly. The steering wheel hub is made stationary and decoupled from the output steering gear, eliminating the need for rotating mechanical connections. This extraction of mechanical transmission elements directly reduces assembly complexity while maintaining steering functionality through alternative means.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical power transmission system with an electrical/electronic control system. Instead of using steering shafts to mechanically connect the steering wheel to the output steering gear, the system uses electrical signals and control algorithms to achieve steering actuation, thereby eliminating complex mechanical assemblies.
2Power
If the steering wheel hub rotates to accommodate traditional mechanical connections, then power transmission is achieved, but airbag systems and crash stroke systems become more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the rotation function from the steering wheel hub, making it stationary. By removing the rotational movement at the hub, the patent simplifies the integration of airbag systems and crash stroke systems, as these systems no longer need to accommodate rotating components. The power transmission function is achieved through alternative non-rotating mechanisms.
3Reliability
If wiring is routed throughout a rotating steering column, then electrical connections are maintained, but complications arise with stationary wheel hub design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the rotation from the steering column hub, creating a stationary structure. This extraction of rotational movement simplifies wiring routing, as electrical connections no longer need to accommodate rotating joints or sliding contacts. The wiring can be directly routed through the stationary column structure, reducing complexity while maintaining reliable electrical connections.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column assembly includes a steering wheel having a steering wheel rim, a steering wheel hub, and a rim extension segment. The steering column assembly also includes a motor operatively coupled to the rim extension segment. The steering column assembly further includes a jacket assembly operatively coupled to the steering wheel, wherein the jacket assembly defines a central passage extending in a longitudinal direction of the steering column assembly, wherein the central passage does not include a steering shaft therein.