Steering Wheel Actuator Assembly for No-Removal Retrofit Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Retrofitting automatic steering systems to vehicles can be complex, often requiring removal of the steering wheel and the use of spline adapters, and may not fit with certain console arrangements or obstruct normal hand placement.
Innovation Solution
A steering wheel actuator mechanism with a frame assembly and rotating assembly that attaches to the steering wheel column without removing the wheel, using a clamp and actuators positioned between the spokes to rotate the wheel, allowing for easy installation and compatibility with various vehicle configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional steering wheel actuators are installed, then automatic steering function is achieved, but steering wheel removal and spline adapter installation are required, increasing installation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the actuator mechanism from the traditional installation path that requires steering wheel removal. The actuator is designed to be installed independently on the steering column without removing the steering wheel, eliminating the need for spline adapters and reducing installation complexity while maintaining automatic steering functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is divided into separate components including a motor assembly, gear mechanism, and mounting bracket that can be installed independently on the steering column. This segmentation allows the actuator to be installed without removing the steering wheel, simplifying the installation process
2Ease of operation
If traditional actuators are installed, then steering control is achieved, but spline adapters must be used, increasing cost and installation time
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is pre-configured with mounting brackets and attachment mechanisms that allow direct installation on the steering column. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site adapter installation and steering wheel removal, reducing installation time and cost while maintaining full steering control functionality
3Extent of automation
If actuators are positioned to rotate the steering wheel, then steering function is achieved, but hand placement on the steering wheel may be obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator mechanism is positioned in the vertical dimension below the steering wheel, with actuators extending upward through openings in the steering wheel structure. This vertical arrangement allows the actuation mechanism to operate in a different spatial dimension, enabling full steering rotation functionality while maintaining unobstructured horizontal hand placement areas on the steering wheel
Data Source
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AI summary
A steering wheel actuator mechanism includes a frame assembly and a rotating assembly. The frame assembly is attached, to a steering wheel column and the rotating assembly is attached around the steering wheel column arid over the frame assembly. In one example, the frame assembly sod the rotating assembly can he located around the steering wheel column, without removing the steering wheel The rotating assembly is inserted down into an opening formed in the frame assembly and rotational ly engaged with a motor housed in the frame assembly. Actuators are attached to the rotating assembly and positioned to extend upwards through the steering wheel next to spokes in. the steering wheel. The rotating.assembly causes the actuators to move the spokes and rotate the steering wheel.