Steering Feedback Actuator Belt Layout for Compact Steering Columns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Steer-by-wire steering systems lack a compact construction mode for feedback actuators due to the large radial space required by conventional belt drives, compromising driving safety and steering capability.
Innovation Solution
The belt pulleys of the feedback actuator are disposed coaxially or at an angle, allowing for a slim construction that optimizes the use of axial space, reducing the radial dimension and enabling integration in a steering column while maintaining low weight and low noise operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional belt drives with radially projecting belt pulleys are used, then torque transmission and speed adaptation are achieved, but construction volume increases and integration in steering column becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the belt pulleys from a radial arrangement (projecting outward from the longitudinal axis) to an axial arrangement (disposed behind one another along the longitudinal axis). This dimensional change allows the feedback actuator to fit within the limited radial space of the steering column while maintaining the necessary torque transmission and speed adaptation functions through the belt drive mechanism
2Volume of moving object
If belt pulleys are disposed coaxially or at an angle, then radial dimension is reduced and construction volume is minimized, but belt drive geometry becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an adjustable belt tensioning device that can dynamically adapt to the altered belt drive geometry caused by the axial pulley arrangement. This dynamic adjustment mechanism compensates for the increased geometric complexity, ensuring proper belt tension and reliable torque transmission while maintaining the compact axial configuration
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 design facilitates a compact, lightweight, and efficient torque transmission, enhancing driving safety and steering capability by integrating the feedback actuator in a minimal construction volume, suitable for steer-by-wire systems.
Implementation Method 1
a belt drive is disposed as a gearbox for transmitting torque and adapting the rotating speed between the motor and the steering shaft. This belt drive comprises at least one pair of belt pulleys having two belt pulleys of different size, the latter also being referred to as belt wheels, a continuous belt running about said belt pulleys or belt wheels, respectively
Data Source
AI summary
A feedback actuator for a steering device of a motor vehicle may include a steering shaft that is mounted so as to be rotatable about a longitudinal axis extending in a longitudinal direction and that, by way of a belt drive, is coupled to a motor shaft of an electric motor so as to be able to be rotatably driven. The belt drive may have at least one pair of belt pulleys having two belt pulleys that are wrapped by a belt. One of the belt pulleys may be operatively connected to the motor shaft and one may be operatively connected to the steering shaft. The two belt pulleys of the pair of belt pulleys may be disposed so as to be mutually coaxial or at a mutual angle.