Steering Wheel Adapter With Sliding Electrical Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automotive simulators require separate mechanical and electrical connections for steering wheels, making installation and removal cumbersome, with dangling cords posing aesthetic and safety issues.
Innovation Solution
A steering wheel adapter system with integrated electrical and optical contact surfaces that allow for a single sliding motion to establish both mechanical and electrical connections between the steering wheel and the simulator, using adapter elements that slide perpendicular to the steering axle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate mechanical and electrical connectors are used for the steering wheel, then the electrical connection can be established, but the installation and removal process becomes cumbersome and requires multiple separate operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate mechanical and electrical connectors into a single integrated connector assembly. The mechanical connector provides structural support and alignment, while the electrical connector establishes electrical contact, both functioning together in one unified component that simplifies installation and removal operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated connector serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support, ensures proper alignment of the steering wheel, establishes electrical contact for power and data transmission, and enables easy attachment and detachment. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate operations for each function.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If separate electrical cords are used for the steering wheel connection, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but dangling cords create aesthetic issues and safety risks from entanglement
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is integrated into the mechanical connector housing, eliminating the need for separate dangling electrical cords. The electrical contacts are positioned to engage automatically when the mechanical connector is assembled, creating a clean, cord-free appearance while maintaining full electrical functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated connector housing acts as an intermediary structure that houses and protects the electrical contacts while providing the mechanical connection function. This mediator eliminates the need for exposed electrical cords by incorporating the electrical connection mechanism within the mechanical connector itself.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single integrated connector is used for both mechanical and electrical functions, then installation becomes simple and cords are eliminated, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated connector is designed as an assembly of distinct components including a mechanical connector portion, an electrical connector portion, and a housing structure. Each component can be manufactured separately using appropriate processes and then assembled into the final integrated unit, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining the benefits of integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering wheel adapter system for an automotive simulator includes a first adapter element formed in a distal end of the steering wheel and a second adapter element formed in a proximal end of a steering axle of the automotive simulator. The first adapter element comprises a first electrical contact surface and the second adapter element comprises a second electrical contact surface. The first and second adapter elements are configured to slide against each other along a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the steering axle, until a coupling position has been reached wherein a central axis of the steering wheel is aligned with a central axis of the steering axle, and the first and second electrical contact surfaces make contact with each other to establish an electrical connection. A steering wheel having a first adapter element and a steering axle having a second adapter element are also described.