Steering Column Worm-Screw Layout for Compact Steer-by-Wire Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Steer-by-wire steering column assemblies face challenges in compact design and space utilization, leading to issues like gear rattle and limited installation flexibility due to conventional motor and gearing configurations.
Innovation Solution
Inclining the rotational axes of the worm screws with respect to the steering column allows for a more compact and flexible design, enabling the ECU to be positioned beyond the steering column, reducing gear rattle and enhancing installation angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the rotational axes of the worm screws are inclined with respect to the steering column, then space utilization is improved and driver foot clearance is increased, but the gear engagement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by inclining the rotational axes of the worm screws at an angle (e.g., 15-30 degrees) relative to the steering column axis, transitioning from a conventional perpendicular arrangement to a three-dimensional angled configuration. This spatial reorientation optimizes the packaging of the steering assembly, increases driver foot clearance, and allows the ECU to be positioned beyond the steering column end, thereby improving space utilization without compromising gear engagement functionality
2Ease of operation
If the ECU is positioned beyond the steering column, then driver foot clearance is improved, but the installation configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the ECU from its conventional position below the motors and relocates it to the end of the steering column. This separation of the control unit from the motor assembly allows for optimized spatial arrangement, improving driver foot clearance while maintaining electrical and functional connections through the steering column structure
3Adaptability or versatility
If the steering column is inclined to the horizontal, then installation flexibility is improved, but the motor positioning complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the steering column to be installed at inclined angles to the horizontal by incorporating the inclined worm screw axes design. This dimensional adaptation allows the assembly to accommodate various installation orientations while maintaining proper gear engagement through the angled worm screw configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates adjustable and adaptable positioning features that allow the motor assembly and worm screws to maintain proper engagement geometry regardless of the steering column's installation angle, providing dynamic adaptability to different mounting configurations
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 configuration optimizes space usage, reduces gear rattle, and allows for easier installation with improved driver foot clearance and the ability to incline the steering column, enhancing the overall efficiency and usability of the steering assembly.
Implementation Method 1
first and second worm screws connected to and rotatable with the output of the first and second motors respectively and engaged with the first gear
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column assembly for a vehicle comprises a steering column mounted for rotation about its longitudinal axis and configured for attachment of a steering wheel at one end; a first gear connected to the steering column at a location spaced from the steering wheel attachment portion and configured to rotate with the steering column; first and second motors; first and second worm screws connected to and rotatable with the output of the first and second motors respectively and engaged with the first gear; and a control arrangement configured to operate the first and second motors; wherein rotational axes of the first and second worm screws are inclined with respect to a plane extending perpendicular to the rotational axis of the steering column.