Steering System with Releasable Connection Means
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing center takeoff rack and pinion steering systems require custom manufacturing for each vehicle make and model, and face challenges in accommodating different vehicle geometries and engine bay constraints, particularly during left-to-right hand drive conversions, and do not provide adequate clearance for exhaust manifolds or aftermarket components.
Innovation Solution
A steering system arrangement with selectively releasable connection means allows for adjustable positioning of steering components, including a pinion housing, center housing, and piston housing, enabling rotation and alignment to suit various vehicle configurations, and incorporates a hydraulic piston assembly for power assistance, allowing for adaptable installation on different vehicles without custom manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional rack and pinion steering system is used, then steering accuracy and response are improved, but the system requires custom manufacturing for each vehicle make and model
Solution Approach 1:
The steering system is divided into separate modular components including a rack assembly, pinion assembly, and mounting brackets. These segments can be independently manufactured to standard specifications and then assembled together, eliminating the need for custom manufacturing while maintaining steering accuracy through precise modular interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering system is designed with universal mounting features and adjustable components that can accommodate multiple vehicle makes and models. The rack and pinion assemblies incorporate standardized mounting patterns and adjustment mechanisms that allow the same basic design to be adapted to different vehicle platforms without custom manufacturing.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the steering rack position is fixed to accommodate exhaust manifolds, then clearance for exhaust components is maintained, but the system cannot be adapted to different vehicle configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The steering rack mounting system incorporates adjustable positioning features including slotted mounting holes and movable mounting brackets that allow the rack position to be dynamically adjusted. This enables the same steering system to be adapted to different vehicle configurations and exhaust manifold arrangements while maintaining adequate clearance through position optimization rather than being fixed to a single location.
3Adaptability or versatility
If left-hand drive steering systems are converted to right-hand drive, then vehicle configuration is changed, but the steering system geometry becomes incorrect
Solution Approach 1:
The steering system incorporates asymmetric mounting options and adjustable linkage lengths that can be configured for either left-hand or right-hand drive applications. The adjustable tie rod ends and positioning features allow the steering geometry to be precisely tuned for the specific hand-drive configuration, maintaining correct steering geometry through adjustment rather than requiring different custom-manufactured components.
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 provides a high degree of adjustability, enabling fitment on various vehicle makes and models, including left and right hand drive configurations, and accommodates engine bay components, offering improved steering performance and ease of installation, with the ability to scale for larger vehicles and maintain serviceability by replacing worn parts.
Implementation Method 1
incorporates a hydraulic piston assembly for power assistance
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to a steering system arrangement for a vehicle, the steering system arrangement comprising a first portion providing a steering input, and a second portion providing a steering output, the first and second portions being connected by connection means selectively releasable to permit selection of the relative positioning of the steering input and the steering output. An associated method for retro fitting the steering system arrangement to a vehicle is also disclosed.