Steering Column Eccentric Bearing for Dynamic Wheel Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle steering column systems are unable to dynamically adjust the transverse inclination angle of the steering column guiding axis while driving in curves, leading to limitations in vehicle maneuverability and increased safety risks.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an eccentric spherical rolling bearing and a concentric spherical rolling bearing, integrated eccentrically or obliquely into the steering column shaft, allows for dynamic adjustment of the transverse inclination angle of the steering column guiding axis during steering column rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If concentric rolling bearings are used to maintain fixed steering column alignment, then manufacturing simplicity and structural stability are improved, but adaptability to curve driving conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an asymmetric configuration by placing the upper rolling bearing eccentrically relative to the steering column shaft, while the lower bearing remains concentric. This asymmetric arrangement creates a variable transverse inclination angle that adapts to curve driving conditions, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static, fixed-angle steering column into a dynamic system where the upper bearing's eccentric position allows the steering column shaft to automatically adjust its transverse inclination angle during rotation. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to respond to curve driving conditions while maintaining structural stability.
2Reliability
If fixed steering column angle is maintained for structural stability, then reliability is improved, but vehicle control safety deteriorates during curve driving
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric placement of the upper eccentric bearing creates a mechanical advantage that allows the steering column to dynamically adjust its angle during curve driving. This maintains structural stability through the bearing support while enabling safe adaptation to driving conditions, reducing loss of control risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic angle adjustment capability provided by the eccentric upper bearing allows the steering column to adapt to curve driving conditions in real-time, maintaining both structural reliability and vehicle control safety by preventing excessive rider lean and front wheel grip issues.
3Ease of operation
If concentric bearings are used for straightforward mechanical operation, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability to varying driving conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric configuration with one eccentric and one concentric bearing maintains ease of operation by preserving the fundamental steering rotation mechanism, while the eccentric upper bearing automatically provides adaptability to varying driving conditions through its geometric properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper eccentric bearing serves multiple functions: it maintains the steering column's rotational operation simplicity while simultaneously providing dynamic angle adjustment for both straight-line and curve driving conditions, enhancing the system's universality.
4Device complexity
If transverse inclination angle is fixed for manufacturing simplicity, then device complexity is reduced, but ability to dynamically guide steering column deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric arrangement of bearings (one eccentric, one concentric) provides dynamic guidance capability without significantly increasing device complexity. The eccentric upper bearing's geometric properties enable automatic angle adjustment, achieving adaptability with minimal additional mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static, fixed-angle configuration to a dynamic one where the eccentric upper bearing enables automatic adjustment of the transverse inclination angle during steering operation, providing dynamic guidance capability while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
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
This solution enables improved vehicle handling and safety by allowing the front and rear wheel alignment to be dynamically modified during curve driving, reducing the risk of losing control due to fixed steering column angles.
Implementation Method 1
the system comprises at least a part of the steering column shaft provided, in relation or preferably integral, eccentrically, and/or optionally obliquely, in a rotating guiding member such as a rolling bearing or bearing
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an vehicle steering column internal device intended to facilitate driving in curves by modifying the alignment of the front and rear wheels of the vehicle, by a transverse/lateral shift, using an eccentric rolling bearing, holding a part of the steering column shaft.