Telescopic Steering Column and Movable Partial Wheel for Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automotive steering apparatuses limit the use of space around the driver's seat, as they do not allow for sufficient contraction or expansion of the steering column and wheel, especially in self-driving modes where expanded space utilization is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A steering apparatus with a telescopic steering column and movable partial wheels that can be inserted into or protruded out of the steering wheel, allowing for adjustable positioning based on driver needs, enabling wider space usage by retracting the column and wheels into the dashboard in self-driving mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the steering column and steering wheel are fixed in position, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the driver cannot widely use the space around the driver's seat
Solution Approach 1:
The steering column is designed with telescopic functionality to dynamically adjust its length, transitioning between extended and retracted positions based on driving modes. The steering wheel is designed with rotatable functionality to dynamically change its angular position. These dynamic adjustments enable the system to adapt to different spatial requirements while maintaining operational effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering wheel is divided into a fixed portion and a movable partial wheel portion. The movable partial wheel can be rotated independently relative to the fixed portion, allowing selective engagement of steering functions. This segmentation enables the system to provide steering control in different configurations depending on whether the vehicle is in manual or self-driving mode.
2Ease of operation
If the steering column is extended for manual driving, then the driver can operate the steering wheel, but the space around the driver's seat is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The steering column incorporates a telescopic mechanism that allows it to dynamically extend when manual steering is needed and retract when self-driving mode is active. This dynamic length adjustment ensures that the steering apparatus occupies minimal space during automated operation while providing full steering capability when the driver needs to manually control the vehicle.
3Area of stationary object
If the steering column is retracted for self-driving mode, then the space around the driver's seat is expanded, but the steering functionality is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The steering wheel is segmented into a fixed portion that remains engaged with the steering column and a movable partial wheel portion that can be rotated independently. In self-driving mode, the movable partial wheel can be rotated to engage with the driver's hand while the main steering column remains retracted, providing limited steering functionality without occupying excessive space.
4Ease of operation
If movable partial wheels are protruded for manual steering, then the driver can steer with hand, but the steering wheel structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The steering wheel is divided into a fixed portion and a movable partial wheel portion. The movable partial wheel is designed to rotate independently relative to the fixed portion, enabling hand-steering capability when needed. This segmentation allows the system to provide manual steering functionality without requiring complete redesign of the entire steering wheel structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable partial wheel serves multiple functions: it provides hand-steering capability when the steering column is extended, and it can be rotated to engage with the driver's hand when the steering column is retracted for self-driving mode. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate steering mechanisms for different operating modes.
Data Source
AI summary
According to embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a steering apparatus for a vehicle, the steering apparatus including: a steering wheel including a housing connected to a upper steering shaft of the vehicle and having a first opening and a second opening on both sides, a first movable partial wheel and a second movable partial wheel configured to be inserted into and protruded out of the housing through the first opening and the second opening, and a wheel actuator disposed in the housing and combined with the first movable partial wheel and the second movable partial wheel to provide a driving force; and a steering column including an inner cover shaft having an end coupled to an end of an upper steering shaft, an inner housing coupled to an end of the inner cover shaft and having a guide protrusion on the outer side thereof, a control housing having a guide hole axially formed to receive the guide protrusion, and a cover housing in which the control housing is rotatably inserted and that is fixed to a car body of the vehicle.