Electric Steering Rack With Lateral Force Absorption for Wide Wheel Angles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrically operated steering systems for vehicles face limitations in steering angle range and efficiency due to complex mechanisms and restrictions, particularly in handling lateral forces effectively.
Innovation Solution
An electrically operated steering system with a rack, steerable wheels, a rod element, and a kinematic unit, coupled with an electric machine, incorporates a lateral force absorbing mechanism to manage lateral forces through a support assembly and stabilizing element, allowing for a wide steering angle range and improved system stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple electric drive mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but steering angle range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The drive mechanism is segmented into two independent electric machines: a first electric machine for steering operations and a second electric machine for lifting operations. This segmentation allows each machine to be optimized for its specific function, enabling the system to achieve both simplicity and extended steering angle range without requiring a single complex mechanism.
2Device complexity
If lateral forces are not absorbed, then device complexity is reduced, but system stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A lateral force absorbing mechanism is introduced as an intermediary component between the drive mechanism and the steering system. This mechanism absorbs lateral forces generated during operation, preventing them from destabilizing the system while maintaining overall structural simplicity. The force absorption capability is integrated without adding significant complexity to the overall system architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If steering angle range is extended, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The steering system employs dynamic control through independent electric machines that can adjust steering angle and lifting height in real-time based on operational requirements. This dynamic capability allows the system to achieve extended steering angle range (including zero-turn capability) without requiring mechanically complex linkages or gear systems, as the extension is achieved through controlled motor operation rather than mechanical design.
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
The system achieves a compact and efficient design that enables a steering angle range of at least 175°, effectively absorbs and transmits lateral forces, and maintains system stability, enhancing vehicle maneuverability and operational reliability.
Implementation Method 1
an electric machine (6) being mechanically connected to said rod element (5) for effecting the movement of said rod element (5)
Implementation Method 2
a kinematic unit, which is coupled to said rod element and which transforms a movement of said rod element into a steering rotation of said wheels
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an electrically operated steering system (1) for a vehicle (2) with a rack (3) for attaching the steering system (1) to a vehicle frame of the vehicle (2), two steerable wheels (4) that are pivotably attached to the rack (3), a rod element (5) arranged on the rack (3), which is slidable in its longitudinal direction in relation to the rack (3), a kinematic unit (13) which is coupled to the rod element (5) and which transforms a movement of the rod element (5) into a steering rotation of the wheels (4), an electric machine (6), which is mechanically connected to the rod element (5) for effecting the movement of the rod element (5), and a lateral force absorbing mechanism (7) which is configured for absorbing a lateral force produced by the kinematic unit (13) in relation to the rod element (5). The invention further relates to a vehicle (2) comprising such a steering system (1).