Steering Wheel with Fixed Eccentric Hub for Stowed Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
In autonomously or semi-autonomously driven vehicles, the traditional steering wheel can occupy unnecessary space and interfere with passengers, and the positioning of the motor/emulator along the steering shaft complicates packaging and size requirements.
Innovation Solution
A center-stationary steering wheel is integrated into a long, telescoping steering column, allowing the wheel to be stowed within the dashboard, and a gear reduction mechanism between the emulator and the steering wheel rim reduces the size and torque requirement of the motor/emulator, optimizing vehicle packaging space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a traditional steering wheel is used in autonomously or semi-autonomously driven vehicles, then the steering function is provided, but the steering wheel occupies unnecessary space and interferes with passengers
Solution Approach 1:
The steering wheel is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, transitioning between an extended operational position and a retracted stowed position. The steering column assembly includes a telescoping mechanism that allows the steering wheel to move along the column, enabling it to be positioned out of the passenger compartment when not in use, thus resolving the contradiction between providing steering function and occupying space.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering wheel assembly is segmented into multiple functional components: the steering wheel rim, the stationary hub, and the telescoping steering column. This segmentation allows the steering wheel rim to be independently positioned and retracted while the hub remains stationary, enabling the steering function to be decoupled from the physical presence of the entire steering wheel assembly in the passenger compartment.
2Ease of operation
If the motor/emulator is positioned along the steering shaft, then the steering control is achieved, but the packaging and size requirements are complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The motor and emulator are merged into a single integrated assembly that is directly coupled to the stationary hub. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate mounting arrangements and complex packaging considerations, as the motor-emulator assembly becomes a unified component that simplifies the overall steering system layout and reduces packaging complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A gear reduction mechanism is introduced as an intermediary between the motor/emulator and the steering wheel rim. This gear set serves as a mediator that transfers torque from the motor to the steering wheel while reducing the size and torque requirements of the motor itself, thereby simplifying packaging requirements without compromising steering control functionality.
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
This solution provides better utilization of passenger compartment space, allows the operator to view vehicle information, and reduces the size and power requirements of the motor/emulator, enhancing vehicle packaging and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The gear set includes at least a first gear coupled to the steering wheel rim and a second gear coupled to the emulator such that a reduction gear mechanism is applied between the emulator and the steering wheel rim.
Implementation Method 2
the steering wheel assembly further includes a plurality of bearings positioned between the steering wheel rim and the steering wheel frame such that the steering wheel rim rotates relative to the steering wheel frame on the plurality of bearings.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering system for an automotive vehicle is disclosed. The steering system includes a steering column assembly, a steering wheel assembly secured to the steering column assembly, the steering wheel assembly comprising a steering wheel frame, a steering wheel rim, and a hub, and an emulator enclosed within a housing, the emulator secured to the steering column assembly. The steering wheel frame and the hub are stationary and the steering wheel rim rotates relative to the steering wheel frame and the hub.