Vehicle Steering System Rim Rectilinear Movement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current vehicle steering systems maintain a fixed posture regardless of the operating mode, compromising driver convenience and the ability to create a comfortable riding environment, especially in autonomous driving modes where the steering wheel should be positioned to minimize interference and maximize space.

Innovation Solution

A vehicle steering system with a rim that is rectilinearly movable and controlled by a processor based on the vehicle's operating mode, including gears and a tilt and telescopic device, allowing the rim to adjust its position and the hub's angle to optimize space and reduce interference, with optional audio guidance for mode changes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the steering wheel maintains a fixed predetermined posture, then the structural simplicity is preserved, but driver convenience and comfort are deteriorated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriver convenienceVSAvoidsteering system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The steering wheel is transformed from a fixed structure to a dynamic one capable of moving in multiple dimensions. The rim assembly including the hub, spokes, and rim is configured to move rectilinearly along the steering column axis and tilt relative to the steering column, enabling the system to adapt its posture dynamically based on operating conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The steering wheel assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a manual steering control and an autonomous driving interface. The ability to adjust position and angle allows it to function effectively in both manual driving mode and autonomous driving mode, maximizing space utilization and minimizing interference with the driver

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the steering wheel is maximally moved upward to minimize contact in autonomous mode, then safety and comfort are improved, but the ability to provide manual steering control is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperating mode adaptabilityVSAvoidsteering control reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The steering wheel employs dynamic movement capabilities with two degrees of freedom: rectilinear movement along the steering column axis and tilting movement relative to the steering column. This dynamic structure allows the system to switch between positions optimized for autonomous driving (maximally moved upward) and manual driving (lower position for driver contact), ensuring both safety and control reliability across different operating modes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Volume of moving object

If the steering wheel posture is optimized for autonomous driving, then space for driver's seat is expanded, but the fixed structure prevents adaptation to manual driving needs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriver spaceVSAvoidmode-specific optimization
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The steering wheel assembly is configured as a dynamic structure that can move rectilinearly along the steering column and tilt relative to it. This enables the system to expand driver space by moving upward when in autonomous driving mode, while simultaneously maintaining the capability to return to a lower position for manual driving, thus achieving both space optimization and mode adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The steering wheel is segmented into movable and stationary components. The hub, spokes, and rim form a movable assembly that can be independently positioned relative to the stationary steering column. This segmentation allows the rim assembly to be optimally positioned for autonomous driving to maximize space, while the overall system remains adaptable for manual driving through controlled movement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 enhances driver convenience and safety by dynamically adjusting the steering wheel's posture according to the vehicle's mode, expanding seat space, minimizing interference, and creating a comfortable environment for various driving scenarios.

Implementation Method 1

a first gear provided in the spoke and rotated by a power source; and a second gear that is provided on the rim so as to be engaged with the first gear and rectilinearly moved by the rotation of the first gear

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGear mechanism: Gear

Data Source

PatentUS11292503B2Vehicle steering system and control method thereof
Publication Date: 2022.04.05 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD
  • US11292503B2 patent drawing
  • US11292503B2 patent drawing
  • US11292503B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A steering system for a vehicle includes a hub connected to a steering column of the vehicle, a spoke connected to the hub, a rim disposed around the hub and connected to the spoke so as to be rectilinearly movable, a first gear provided in the spoke and rotated by a power source, and a second gear that is provided on the rim so as to be engaged with the first gear and rectilinearly moved by the rotation of the first gear and that moves the rim relative to the spoke.