Steering Column Actuator for Haptic Feedback
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle steering systems that provide haptic feedback through the steering wheel are complex, costly, and weigh heavily due to dedicated vibration means, which do not effectively simulate natural road feedback like rumble strips.
Innovation Solution
A steering system that uses a rotatable steering column and a linearly movable steering member, actuated by an electronic controller and actuator, to impart oscillating forces, providing realistic haptic and audible feedback by simulating the vibrations felt through the vehicle's structure, without the need for dedicated components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If dedicated vibration means (electric motor and imbalance) are used within the steering wheel, then haptic feedback can be provided to drivers, but device complexity, weight, and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The steering column adjustment motor is made multi-functional by enabling it to perform both its original function (adjusting steering column position) and a new function (providing haptic feedback through controlled vibration). This eliminates the need for dedicated vibration means, reducing device complexity while maintaining haptic feedback capability.
2Ease of operation
If dedicated vibration means are mounted within the steering wheel, then haptic feedback is provided, but weight increases and electric routing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The steering column adjustment motor is repurposed to serve dual functions: maintaining steering column position adjustment capability while simultaneously generating haptic feedback. This eliminates additional weight from dedicated vibration motors and simplifies electric routing by utilizing existing motor and control infrastructure.
3Ease of operation
If steering assistance servo is used to impart vibration to the steering column, then haptic feedback is provided, but the feedback feels artificial and distinct from natural road feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The steering member acts as an intermediary element that translates oscillating force from the actuator into natural road-like feedback through the vehicle's existing mechanical linkage (steering column, rack and pinion, tie rods). This mechanical translation pathway preserves the natural characteristics of road feedback by utilizing the vehicle's inherent suspension and steering geometry, rather than directly actuating the steering column which produces artificial-sounding feedback.
4Ease of operation
If oscillating force is applied directly to the steering column, then haptic feedback is provided, but the feedback is artificial and does not simulate natural road vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The steering member serves as a mechanical intermediary that converts actuator oscillations into natural road feedback characteristics. By applying force to the steering member rather than directly to the steering column, the system utilizes the vehicle's existing mechanical linkage and suspension geometry to translate oscillations into realistic road-like vibrations, preserving the natural feedback characteristics drivers expect.
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 offers cost-effective, weight-efficient haptic feedback that mimics natural road vibrations, enhancing driver awareness without additional hardware, and can be retrofitted without hardware changes, providing noticeable feedback even when the driver is not touching the steering wheel.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator co-operable with the steering member for linear actuation of the steering member, the actuator being configured for receiving and executing commands from the electronic controller; and wherein said electronic controller is configured to send, in dependence on a defined condition, an oscillation command to the actuator to impart an oscillating force to the steering member
Implementation Method 2
the steering wheel may be caused to vibrate to provide a warning to be sensed by the driver's hands
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed a steering system for a vehicle. The system comprises a rotatable steering column co-operable with a steering wheel. A steering member is co-operable with the steering column such that rotary motion of the steering column causes linear motion of the steering member and linear motion of the steering member causes rotary motion of the steering column. An actuator is co-operable with the steering member for linear actuation of the steering member, the actuator being configured for receiving and executing commands from a controller that sends, in dependence on a defined condition, an oscillation command to the actuator to impart an oscillating force to the steering member. A method of providing feedback through a steering system of a vehicle is also disclosed, as are suitable controllers, software and processors.