Steering Assembly Layout Between Frame Rails for Space Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional refuse vehicle steering systems require components to be positioned outside the frame rails due to the presence of an internal combustion engine and its oil pan, limiting space utilization and complicating vehicle design.
Innovation Solution
Repositioning the engine or using an electric motor, allowing steering components to be positioned between the frame rails, thereby freeing up space for other components and enabling a more compact vehicle design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If steering components are positioned outside the frame rails to accommodate the internal combustion engine and oil pan, then the engine can be properly installed, but the space utilization is limited and vehicle design is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the steering gear mechanism from the traditional position outside the frame rails and relocates it to the space between the frame rails. This extraction of the steering component from its conventional location allows the internal combustion engine and oil pan to occupy the outer spaces, while the steering components utilize the previously unused central space, thereby simplifying vehicle design and improving space utilization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions the steering component layout from a two-dimensional arrangement (outside frame rails) to a three-dimensional utilization of space (between frame rails). By using the vertical and lateral space between the frame rails that was previously unused, the design creates a more efficient spatial configuration that accommodates both the engine and steering components without increasing overall vehicle width
2Ease of manufacture
If steering components are positioned outside the frame rails, then the internal combustion engine can be installed, but space for other components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested spatial arrangement where the steering gear mechanism is positioned within the space between the frame rails, which is itself nested within the overall vehicle chassis structure. This nested configuration allows multiple components (engine, oil pan, steering mechanism) to occupy different spatial layers and zones, maximizing the utilization of available space without compromising engine installation
3Ease of operation
If the linkage assembly passes through frame members, then steering is facilitated, but the frame structure is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the linkage assembly from the frame members and relocates it to pass underneath the frame members instead. This extraction eliminates the need for the linkage to penetrate or compromise the frame structure, thereby maintaining frame strength and integrity while still enabling effective steering operation through the repositioned linkage mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A chassis for a vehicle includes a frame assembly, an axle coupled to the frame assembly, and a steering assembly. The steering assembly includes a pair of wheel hubs coupled to opposing ends of the axle, a steering gear mechanism positioned between frame members of the frame assembly, and a linkage assembly coupling the steering gear mechanism to the pair of wheel hubs to facilitate steering the pair of wheel hubs through actuation of the steering gear mechanism. No components of linkage assembly extend through any frame member of the frame assembly.