Steering Column Adjustment by Steering Wheel Force Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steering apparatuses with electromechanical adjustment devices lack intuitive operation, requiring additional control elements like a 4-way switch for adjusting the steering column.
Innovation Solution
The system detects and responds to adjustment forces applied through the steering wheel, eliminating the need for separate control elements by using a sensor system to generate an adjustment signal based on the detected force, allowing intuitive adjustment of the steering column through pushing, pulling, lifting, or lowering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an electromechanical adjustment device is used to adjust the steering column, then the adjustment can be controlled precisely, but the operation becomes less intuitive and requires additional control elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control function with the steering wheel itself by detecting forces applied to it. The steering wheel serves both as the steering control interface and as the adjustment trigger, eliminating the need for separate control elements like 4-way switches. This integration maintains precise electromechanical adjustment while restoring intuitive operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a sensor system as an intermediary between the user's physical interaction with the steering wheel and the electromechanical adjustment device. The sensor detects forces applied to the steering wheel and converts them into adjustment signals, bridging the gap between intuitive mechanical interaction and precise electronic control.
2Measurement precision
If additional control elements like a 4-way switch are added for adjusting the steering column, then the adjustment control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the existing steering wheel structure. The steering wheel simultaneously serves as the primary steering interface and the adjustment trigger, eliminating the need for separate control elements. This reduces device complexity while maintaining precise adjustment control through the electromechanical system.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering wheel is given multi-functionality, serving both as the steering control interface and as the adjustment trigger. By making the steering wheel universal for both steering and adjustment purposes, the patent eliminates additional control elements and reduces overall device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the steering column is made adjustable in multiple directions, then the adaptability to user requirements is improved, but the adjustment device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustability by enabling the steering column to be adjusted in multiple directions (longitudinally and in inclination) through a single force-detection interface. The system dynamically responds to the direction and magnitude of forces applied to the steering wheel, providing versatile position adjustment without requiring complex mechanical switching mechanisms.
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
Enables intuitive operation of the steering column adjustment without additional controls, enhancing user experience and safety by reducing the risk of trapping and providing adaptive adjustment based on detected forces.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor system, in particular having at least one sensor element or a plurality of sensor elements, is designed for detecting an adjustment force introduced via the steering wheel
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a method for adjusting a steering apparatus for a vehicle, in which a steering column is adjusted in the longitudinal direction of the steering column and/or in respect of an inclination of the steering column by an electromechanical adjustment device, and in which the adjustment device is controlled by a control device. In order to improve the operability of the electromechanical adjustment device for a user, the method comprises an adjustment force for adjusting the steering column being introduced into the steering apparatus via a steering wheel, wherein an adjustment signal which is dependent on the adjustment force is detected and/or generated, the adjustment signal being transmitted to the control device and the steering column being adjusted on the basis of the adjustment signal.