Single Motor Steering Column Tilt Telescopic Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing motor driven steering column systems for vehicles require multiple motors for tilt and telescopic operations, increasing the number of components and manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A motor driven steering column system utilizing a single motor that switches power transfer routes using a reversible motor and a power switching unit with a movable rack lever and switch lever to selectively direct rotational force for either tilt or telescopic operations, reducing the need for multiple motors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple motors are used for tilt and telescopic operations, then the steering column system can perform both functions independently, but the number of components and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single motor is designed to perform both tilt and telescopic operations by switching its power transfer route. The motor can alternatively drive either the tilt operation or the telescopic operation, making one component serve multiple functions and eliminating the need for separate motors for each operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a dynamic power switching mechanism that can alternatively connect the single motor to different power transfer routes. The switching unit dynamically redirects the motor's output based on whether tilt or telescopic operation is required, enabling flexible operation modes with a fixed motor
2Reliability
If multiple motors are used for tilt and telescopic operations, then each function can be driven independently, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single motor is designed with universal capability to perform both tilt and telescopic functions. By making the motor multi-functional through alternative power transfer routes, the system reduces component count and manufacturing cost while preserving independent control of each function through the switching mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of two separate motors into a single motor system. The tilt and telescopic power transfer routes are combined into one motor assembly with a switching unit, consolidating components and reducing manufacturing complexity and cost
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 simplifies the system by reducing the number of motors and components, lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining adjustable steering column functionality according to driver preferences.
Implementation Method 1
a transfer gear engaged with a gear formed in a driving shaft of the reversible motor such that the transfer gear rotates in the forward or reverse direction
Implementation Method 2
a movable rack lever linearly moved while being engaged with a transfer shaft gear provided at one side of the transfer gear
Implementation Method 3
a switch lever fixed to one end of the movable rack lever by means of a coupling pin in order to perform a seesaw movement according to the linear movement of the movable rack lever
Data Source
AI summary
A motor driven steering column system of a vehicle capable of interchanging tilt/telescopic modes using a single motor generating driving force by switching power transfer routes of the single motor using a small-sized motor in tilt/telescopic operations. The motor driven steering column system includes a driving motor generating rotational force for tilt/telescopic operations by receiving battery power according to a control signal of a mode control switch, an ECU selectively transferring the rotational force of the driving motor by determining the tilt/telescopic modes according to the control signal of the mode control switch, and a power switching unit controlled by the ECU for operating the motor driven steering column system in a selected mode.