Steering System Link Sensor Placement for Rigidity
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing steering systems of saddle-ride type vehicles face challenges in securing rigidity due to the need to detect steering torque from the twist of the steering shaft, which requires a narrow steering shaft and compromises its rigidity.
Innovation Solution
A steering system design that includes a steering system link with a steering force detection sensor to detect tension and compression forces, allowing the steering force detection sensor to be placed in the steering system link rather than the steering shaft or stem, thereby maintaining rigidity and allowing for precise force detection without narrowing the shaft or link.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the steering shaft is narrowed to detect steering torque from twist, then steering torque detection is enabled, but the rigidity of the steering system deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a steering system link as an intermediary component between the steering shaft and the steering force transmit member. The steering force detection sensor is installed on this link, which transmits steering force through tension and compression forces rather than relying on twist detection. This intermediary approach allows accurate steering force measurement without requiring the steering shaft to be narrowed, thereby maintaining its rigidity.
2Measurement precision
If the steering force detection sensor is arranged in the steering shaft or stem, then steering force detection is enabled, but the rigidity of the steering system is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection dimension from torsional twist (rotational deformation) to axial tension and compression forces. By installing the sensor on the steering system link and measuring forces along the link's axial direction, the system achieves steering force detection without compromising the structural rigidity of the steering shaft and stem.
3Volume of moving object
If the steering system link is made compact for balanced configuration, then the steering arm can be made compact, but the detection precision may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from twist angle to axial force (tension and compression). This parameter change allows the steering system link to be made compact without affecting detection precision, as the sensor measures force magnitude along the link's axis rather than requiring space for twist measurement mechanisms.
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 secures the rigidity of the steering system while enabling precise detection of steering forces, allowing for a more compact and balanced steering arm configuration.
Implementation Method 1
The steering force detection sensor detects a tension force and a compression force applied to the axial direction of the steering system link member
Data Source
AI summary
A steering system of a saddle-ride type vehicle includes a front fork that includes a steering shaft at the upper end and supports a front wheel at the lower end, a steering arm that is attached to the steering shaft, a steering force transmit member that is turnably supported by a steering stem that is disposed in a body frame, and a steering system link that joins the steering arm and the steering force transmit member. The steering system link joins the steering arm and the steering force transmit member that is disposed rearward of the steering arm. A steering force detection sensor that detects a steering force transmitted to the steering shaft is disposed in the steering system link.