Steering Shaft End Stop Device Axial Blocking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Steer-by-wire steering systems lack effective mechanisms to limit steering angle rotation, leading to potential overloading and damage due to the absence of mechanical connections, and require high-grade materials for stop solutions within limited installation spaces.
Innovation Solution
A steering apparatus with an end stop device featuring a movable first blocking element that cooperates with a fixed blocking element, guided by an entrainment device attached to the steering shaft, providing a space-saving and reliable means to limit steering angle rotation through a rotational device with multiple annular elements and a feedback motor for torque resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high-grade materials are used to produce stop elements, then reliability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the blocking elements, specifically designing them with inclined surfaces that convert rotational forces into axial forces. This parameter optimization allows the use of conventional materials instead of expensive high-grade materials while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking elements feature curved inclined surfaces that optimize force distribution and contact geometry. This curvature design enhances the mechanical advantage, allowing reliable stopping with simpler, less expensive materials
2Reliability
If large stop elements are formed, then reliability is improved, but installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking elements are designed to be movable in the axial direction rather than fixed, allowing them to engage and disengage dynamically. This dynamic design enables compact packaging while maintaining reliable stopping capability when engaged
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the stopping mechanism from a radial design to an axial design, where blocking elements move along the axial direction. This dimensional change allows the stop elements to be compact in the radial direction (saving installation space) while maintaining effective stopping area through axial movement
3Reliability
If the first blocking element is made movable in axial direction, then steering angle limitation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking elements are merged with the steering shaft assembly, where the first blocking element is integrated into the steering shaft structure and moves axially relative to the second blocking element fixed on the steering column. This merging reduces overall device complexity while achieving reliable steering angle limitation
Solution Approach 2:
The movable first blocking element automatically engages with the second blocking element when the steering shaft reaches its rotational limits, without requiring external actuation or control systems. This self-service mechanism simplifies the device by eliminating additional actuators or sensors
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 solution effectively limits steering angle rotation, prevents overloading, and provides feedback to the driver while using space-efficient designs, reducing the need for expensive materials and enhancing system reliability.
Implementation Method 1
the steering apparatus has a feedback motor which simulates steering forces in order to provide the driver with feedback from the acting steering forces
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a steering apparatus (1) having a steering shaft (5) and having an end stop device (10) for limiting a steering angle of rotation, the end stop device (10) having a first blocking element (11), and the first blocking element (11) being movable in an axial direction of the longitudinal center axis (6) of the steering shaft (5) in order to limit the steering angle of rotation, the first blocking element (11) cooperating with a positionally fixed further blocking element (12) in order to stop rotation of the steering shaft (5) about the longitudinal center axis (6) and with regard to two directions of rotation (7, 8) of the steering shaft (5) that are directed in opposite directions to one another. In order for it to be possible to reliably pick up and transmit high forces and/or torques in a stop position of the steering apparatus (1), the steering apparatus (1) is designed such that the movement of the first blocking element (11) is guided by means of an entrainment device (16), the entrainment device (16) being connected to the steering shaft (5) in a positionally fixed manner in order to rotate conjointly with the steering shaft (5).