Steering Column Centering Mechanism Using Helical Tracks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Steering systems with electric actuators fail to return the steering wheel to the center position in the event of an electrical failure, disrupting vehicle control and safety.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical actuator assembly comprising plates with tracks and spring elements that bias movement to rotate the steering column back to the center position, utilizing ramp regions to generate torque and facilitate return to the center position, independent of electrical power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an electric actuator is used to return the steering wheel to the center position, then steering assistance is provided during normal operation, but the system fails to return the steering wheel to center in case of electrical failure
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator assembly is segmented into multiple functional components: a first plate with first track, a second plate with second track, and a spring element. This segmentation allows the mechanical return function to be separated from the electric actuator, enabling independent operation during electrical failures while maintaining steering assistance during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element acts as an intermediary mechanical component that stores and releases energy to return the steering wheel to center position. The track structures serve as intermediaries that convert the spring's linear motion into rotational motion of the steering column, providing a mechanical backup independent of electrical systems.
2Reliability
If a mechanical actuator assembly with spring elements and tracks is added to provide fail-safe return function, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical return mechanism is merged with the electric actuator assembly by integrating the spring element and track structures into the same housing. The first plate and second plate are positioned to work together with the electric actuator, creating a unified assembly that provides both electric steering assistance and mechanical fail-safe return functions within a single structural framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator assembly is designed with multi-functionality: during normal operation, the electric actuator provides steering assistance while the mechanical components remain standby; during electrical failure, the spring element automatically engages to return the steering wheel to center. This universal design allows the same assembly to serve multiple functions across different operational conditions.
3Reliability
If higher power motor is used to ensure steering return capability, then steering control is maintained, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical return function replaces the need for high-power electric motors to ensure steering return capability. The spring element provides the mechanical force needed to return the steering wheel to center position without requiring additional electrical power, substituting a passive mechanical system for an active electrical system.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element stores energy during steering input (when the steering column rotates away from center) and releases this energy periodically to return the steering wheel to center position. This periodic energy storage and release mechanism ensures reliable return capability without continuous power consumption.
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
Ensures the steering wheel returns to the center position mechanically in case of electrical failure, enhancing safety and allowing for lower power motor usage during normal operation, thereby reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element arranged with the actuator assembly to bias movement of the second plate in an axial direction along the central axis
Implementation Method 2
Each of the outer tracks and each of the inner tracks define a ramp region, with each of the ramp regions arranged with the spring element to influence a rotation of the steering column to return to the center position
Data Source
AI summary
A steering system includes a steering column for rotation between at least a center position and a range of second positions and defining a central axis. The steering system also includes an actuator assembly in operative communication with the steering column to provide steering assistance, the actuator assembly comprising a pair of plates, each plate including a first helical track and a second helical track. The steering system further includes a spring element arranged with the actuator assembly to bias movement of one of the pair of plates along the central axis to influence the steering column to move to the center position.