Steering Wheel Multi-Function Assembly With Wireless Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
The repetitive operations of switches on the steering wheel cause connection problems due to power and control signal transmission issues between the rotating steering wheel and the stationary steering column.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function assembly that wirelessly transmits power and control signals between the steering wheel and the steering column using magnetic materials and sensors to detect the rotation angle, preventing disconnection and improving alignment accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If connectors are used to transmit power and control signals between the rotating steering wheel and the stationary steering column, then electrical connection is established, but disconnection occurs due to repetitive operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical connector system with a magnetic coupling system. The first magnetic material on the rotating member and second magnetic material on the stationary member create magnetic fields that transmit power and control signals wirelessly, eliminating physical contact and preventing connector disconnection during repetitive steering operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the rotating steering wheel and stationary steering column. The magnetic materials generate fields that serve as a mediator to transmit electrical energy and control signals without direct physical connection, resolving the disconnection problem.
2Reliability
If magnetic materials are used for wireless power and signal transmission, then connector disconnection is prevented, but alignment accuracy between rotating and stationary members must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs sensors to detect the alignment state between the rotating member and stationary member, providing feedback information about their relative positions. This feedback mechanism allows the system to maintain accurate alignment while enabling wireless power and signal transmission through magnetic materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical alignment mechanisms with magnetic field-based alignment detection using sensors. The magnetic materials and sensors work together to maintain precise alignment accuracy without relying on traditional mechanical coupling, ensuring reliable wireless transmission.
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
Prevents disconnection of connectors and enhances the accuracy of identifying the steering wheel's rotation and alignment state, making operations more intuitive.
Implementation Method 1
a first magnetic material disposed inside the first accommodation portion, and a second magnetic material disposed inside the second accommodation portion
Implementation Method 2
a first sensor and a second sensor provided at positions that correspond to the first magnetic material and the second magnetic material, respectively, and the first sensor and the second sensor may detect a rotation angle of the steering wheel by detecting rotation angles of the first steering angle gear and the second steering angle gear
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-function assembly for a vehicle includes a body that is disposed on a steering column and rotatably supports a steering wheel; a first cover coupled to one side of the body; a first substrate mounted on one side of the first cover, and through which a steering shaft passes; a shaft gear coupled to the steering shaft such that the shaft gear is rotated together with the steering wheel as the steering wheel rotates, the shaft gear being disposed on one side of the first substrate; a second substrate disposed to face the first substrate with the shaft gear as a center and configured to receive electrical power wirelessly from the first substrate and to transmit and receive control signals to and from the first substrate; and a first steering angle gear and a second steering angle gear disposed between the first cover and the first substrate to mesh with the shaft gear.