Electric Steering Rack Kinematics for Wide-Angle Wheel Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrically operated steering systems for vehicles face limitations in steering angle range and efficiency, often being complex or inefficient, with restrictions in operation and limited ability to handle lateral forces effectively.
Innovation Solution
An electrically operated steering system that includes a rack, steerable wheels, a rod element, a kinematic unit, and a lateral force absorbing mechanism, where the kinematic unit converts translational movement into steering rotation, and the lateral force absorbing mechanism reduces the impact of lateral forces on the rod element and system components, allowing for a wider 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 steering system is divided into two independent drive mechanisms: a primary electric drive for normal steering operations and a secondary lifting mechanism for achieving extreme steering angles. This segmentation allows each mechanism to be optimized for its specific function, maintaining simplicity while extending the overall steering angle range.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between two operational modes: normal electric drive operation for routine steering and lifting mechanism activation for extreme angles. The control system detects when extreme angles are required and automatically engages the lifting mechanism, allowing the system to adapt its complexity based on operational needs.
2Device complexity
If lateral forces are not absorbed, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to increased wear and instability
Solution Approach 1:
A lateral force absorbing mechanism is introduced as an intermediary component between the drive mechanism and the steering components. This mechanism absorbs and dissipates lateral forces generated during steering operations, protecting the primary components from excessive wear and instability while maintaining overall system simplicity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If steering angle range is extended, then adaptability is improved, but lateral forces increase causing harmful effects
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting mechanism is designed to convert the harmful lateral forces generated during extreme steering angle operations into beneficial vertical lifting motion. By lifting the steering components vertically, the mechanism reduces the lateral force components that would otherwise cause wear and instability, while still achieving the required extreme steering angles.
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 wider steering angle range and enhanced stability by effectively managing lateral forces, enabling efficient operation and reduced wear on components, particularly at high steering angles and during zero-turn functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an electric machine (6) which is mechanically connected to the rod element (5) for effecting the movement of the rod element (5)
Implementation Method 2
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)
Data Source
AI summary
An electrically operated steering system (1) is provided for a vehicle (2) with a rack (3) for attaching the steering system (1) to a 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).