Rotary Steering Drive with Integrated Angle Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial trucks face challenges with the accessibility and cost-effectiveness of rotational angle detection devices, which are often bulky and prone to errors due to their installation location, leading to increased maintenance and operational costs.
Innovation Solution
Integrating the rotational angle detection device as a part of the steering drive unit, allowing for direct steering angle detection within the unit without additional attachments, and using a modular magnetic system for reliable and cost-effective detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the rotational angle detection device is installed on the free end of the steering shaft or output shaft, then the detection function is achieved, but the accessibility is poor and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational angle detection device is merged with the steering drive unit by mounting it on the drive shaft within the drive unit housing, rather than on the free end of the steering shaft. This integration improves accessibility while maintaining detection functionality, as the device becomes part of the easily accessible steering drive unit located laterally next to the steerable wheel.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection device is relocated from the vertical dimension (free end of shaft above bogie) to the lateral dimension (within steering drive unit housing next to wheel), changing the spatial arrangement to improve accessibility without compromising detection capability.
2Reliability
If the rotational angle detection device is installed on the free end of the steering shaft, then the detection function is achieved, but the space requirement increases at locations that could have other uses
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device is merged into the steering drive unit structure, utilizing the existing space within the drive unit housing rather than requiring additional space above the bogie or at the free end of the shaft. This eliminates the need for extra installation space while maintaining full detection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational angle detection device is nested within the steering drive unit housing, placing one functional component inside the space already allocated for the drive unit, thereby eliminating the need for separate installation space.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact rotational angle detection device is used, then the size is reduced, but the manufacturing and assembly costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device is combined with the steering drive unit as an integrated assembly, allowing for simplified manufacturing and assembly processes. The device benefits from the existing production infrastructure for steering drive units, reducing per-unit costs despite the compact design.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering drive unit housing serves multiple functions: it houses the rotary steering motor, the drive shaft, and now the rotational angle detection device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and assemblies, lowering overall manufacturing and assembly costs.
4Reliability
If the rotational angle detection device is installed in locations above the load wheels, then the detection function is achieved, but the susceptibility to errors increases due to poor accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device is merged with the steering drive unit, relocating it from the vulnerable position above load wheels to the protected position within the drive unit housing. This integration protects the device from environmental factors and mechanical damage while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The poor accessibility that previously caused susceptibility to errors is converted into a benefit by integrating the device within the protected steering drive unit housing, which provides mechanical protection and a stable installation environment while improving overall system reliability.
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 provides a space-saving, low-cost, and reliable rotational angle detection system, enhancing operational reliability and reducing maintenance costs by allowing for easier accessibility and modular component replacement.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one rotational angle detection device is designed as a part of each steering drive unit
Data Source
AI summary
An industrial truck includes at least two steerable wheels, each of which is configured to be steerable independently of one another, and a steering angle control. Each of the at least two steerable wheels has assigned thereto one steering drive unit which comprises a rotary steering motor, and one steering shaft. Each one of the at least two steerable wheels is connected to the rotary steering motor of the steering drive unit via the steering shaft which is assigned thereto. The steering angle control controls each rotary steering motor. The steering angle control has at least one rotational angle detection device which detects a current rotational angle position of each steering shaft. The at least one rotational angle detection device is designed as a part of each steering drive unit.