Steering Assembly Sliding Middle Link Heavy-Duty Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heavy-duty vehicles with parallelogram steering systems face challenges in accommodating front-wheel drive configurations due to packaging constraints and lack of compatibility with non-rigid axles and different suspension systems, limiting the integration of motorized front wheels and power steering systems.
Innovation Solution
A steering assembly with a sliding middle link that reduces the overall footprint and moving components, allowing for motorization of front wheels and integration with hydraulic power steering, and is compatible with non-rigid axles and independent suspension systems like double wishbone suspensions, without relying on a rack and pinion system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a parallelogram steering system is used in heavy-duty vehicles, then wheel alignment is maintained over longer durations and passenger comfort is increased, but the system occupies a large footprint and cannot accommodate motorized front wheels
Solution Approach 1:
The steering system is divided into modular components: a rack assembly with rack pinion mechanism, a steering linkage assembly with adjustable length, and a parallelogram linkage assembly. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently and packaged more efficiently, reducing the overall footprint while maintaining the necessary steering functionality and adaptability for motorized front wheels
Solution Approach 2:
The steering components are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration rather than a planar layout. The rack assembly extends in one dimension, the steering linkage connects in another dimension, and the parallelogram linkage operates in a third dimension, effectively utilizing vertical and lateral space to reduce the horizontal footprint of the steering system
2Adaptability or versatility
If a parallelogram steering system is used, then independent movement of vehicle wheels is enabled, but the system becomes more complex with more moving components
Solution Approach 1:
The steering linkage assembly serves multiple functions: it connects the rack assembly to the wheel assemblies, accommodates varying distances between components through adjustable length, and works with both rigid and non-rigid axles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, simplifying the overall system while maintaining compatibility with independent suspension systems
Solution Approach 2:
The steering linkage assembly features adjustable length capability, allowing the system to adapt dynamically to different vehicle configurations and suspension movements. This dynamic adjustment reduces the need for multiple fixed-length linkages and complex adjustment mechanisms, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility
3Speed
If a rack and pinion steering assembly is used, then responsiveness is improved, but it cannot be readily adapted to heavy-duty vehicles due to lack of commercially available heavy-duty racks
Solution Approach 1:
The rack assembly is designed with adjustable parameters including rack length, pinion gear size and tooth configuration, and mounting position. These parameter adjustments allow the same basic rack and pinion design to be optimized for different heavy-duty vehicle applications, from light trucks to heavy duty trucks, maintaining steering responsiveness while adapting to various load requirements and spatial constraints
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for a steering system for a vehicle. In one example, the steering system may include a steering assembly with a first linkage assembly extending along a first direction between a vehicle steering wheel and a first wheel plate of the steering assembly. The steering system may also include a second linkage assembly with a sliding middle link extending along a second direction between the first wheel plate and a second wheel plate of the steering assembly.