Stowable Steering Column Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current steering column devices for autonomous vehicles are limited in both positioning capability and operating speed when transitioning between stowed and un-stowed positions.
Innovation Solution
A steering column apparatus featuring a telescoping column assembly and a stowing assembly, where the telescoping column assembly moves between extended and retracted positions independently of the stowing assembly's motion between stowed and un-stowed states, utilizing separate drive devices for each function to enhance positioning flexibility and speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single integrated steering column device is used for both telescoping and stowing functions, then the device structure is simple, but the positioning capability and operating speed are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The steering column device is divided into two independent assemblies: a telescoping column assembly for length adjustment and a stowing assembly for stowing/unstowing operations. Each assembly has its own drive device, allowing independent operation and optimization of each function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static integrated structure to a dynamic segmented structure where the telescoping column assembly and stowing assembly can move independently relative to each other, enabling faster and more versatile positioning capabilities.
2Speed
If a single drive device controls both telescoping and stowing functions, then the device complexity is low, but the operating speed transitions between positions is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The drive system is segmented into a telescoping drive device and a stowing drive device, each optimized for its specific function. This allows each drive device to operate at optimal speed for its task, with the stowing drive device enabling faster transitions between stowed and un-stowed states.
Solution Approach 2:
The independent drive devices enable dynamic speed optimization where the stowing assembly can transition quickly between stowed and un-stowed positions while the telescoping assembly provides precise position control, achieving high operating speed without compromising control precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the telescoping column assembly and stowing assembly are integrated into a single structure, then the mounting structure is simple, but the positioning flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure is segmented to accommodate both the telescoping column assembly and stowing assembly as separate units. The stowing assembly includes a stowing guide rack that provides independent motion guidance, allowing the telescoping column assembly to move freely along the steering axis while the stowing assembly operates independently along the stow axis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an additional degree of freedom by separating the telescoping motion (along steering axis) from the stowing motion (along stow axis), enabling two-dimensional positioning flexibility that would be impossible with a single integrated structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column apparatus includes a telescoping column assembly and a stowing assembly. The telescoping column assembly includes a lower jacket and an upper jacket. The upper jacket is adapted to move between extended and retracted positions along a telescope axis and with respect to the lower jacket. The stowing assembly is engaged to the lower jacket, and is adapted to move between stowed and un-stowed states along a stow axis.