Steering Column Joint Layout for Independent Reaction Force Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
In steer-by-wire steering systems, the arrangement of a heavy reaction force generator interferes with the tilt operation of the steering column, increases load on the tilt pivot, complicates the structure, and lowers assemblability.
Innovation Solution
A steering device with a joint connecting the steering shaft to a fixed-side rotating body, such as a reaction force generator, is disposed closer to the steering wheel side, allowing it to be supported independently of the steering column's tilt operation, reducing interference and maintaining assemblability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the reaction force generator is disposed at a front end portion of the steering column, then the steering system can be configured, but the steering column is easily rotated (tilted) around the tilt pivot and the load on the tilt pivot increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reaction force generator is extracted from the steering column and disposed separately on the vehicle body. This separation removes the heavy object from the steering column, preventing it from interfering with the tilt operation and reducing the load on the tilt pivot while maintaining the steering system configuration.
2Ease of manufacture
If the reaction force generator is disposed at a front end portion of the steering column, then the steering system can be configured, but the structure becomes complicated and assemblability is lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The reaction force generator is extracted from the steering column assembly and disposed separately on the vehicle body. This extraction simplifies the steering column structure, reduces the number of components to assemble, and improves assemblability while maintaining the overall steering system configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the extension stroke of the steering column is increased, then the steering column can be adjusted, but the distance L from the tilt pivot to the reaction force generator is increased, increasing the load on the tilt pivot
Solution Approach 1:
The reaction force generator is extracted from the steering column and disposed separately on the vehicle body. This extraction eliminates the moment arm effect that would otherwise increase the load on the tilt pivot when the steering column extension stroke is increased, allowing for greater adjustment range without increasing pivot load.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering device includes a steering wheel, a steering shaft, a steering column, a tilt position adjustment mechanism for tilting the steering column, and a joint for tiltably connecting the steering shaft with a fixed-side rotating body which is supported on a vehicle body side without being interlocked with a tilt operation performed by the tilt position adjustment mechanism. The joint is disposed closer to a steering wheel side than the fixed-side rotating body is.