Universal Steering Assist Coupler for Modular Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic steering systems lack the capability to perform advanced functions like park assist, lane keeping, and stability control assist, requiring costly and time-consuming retooling of new steering gears to integrate additional features.
Innovation Solution
A universal steering assist system comprising a housing, actuator assembly, rotary valve assembly, bearing assembly, differential pressure transducer, and a versatile coupler that can connect to any style hydraulic steering gear, enabling modular integration of advanced features without modifying the existing steering system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a new steering gear is tooled to interface with the steering system, then the capability to perform advanced functions (park assist, lane keeping, stability control assist) is improved, but the manufacturing cost and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The steering assist system is designed with a universal interface that can be adapted to multiple existing steering gear types (recirculating ball style, rack and pinion style, and other hydraulic steering gears) without requiring custom tooling for each gear type. This allows the same assist system to provide advanced functions across different steering gear platforms, eliminating the need for expensive and time-consuming retooling while maintaining full functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing hydraulic steering systems are modified to add advanced features, then the functionality is improved, but the system complexity and modification cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The steering assist system is designed as a modular, self-contained unit that can be independently installed onto existing steering gear systems. The system segments the advanced functionality into a separate assist mechanism that interfaces with the original steering gear through standardized connections, avoiding the need to modify or retool the existing steering gear itself. This modular approach reduces system complexity by keeping the original and new systems independent yet interoperable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a universal steering assist system is used, then the adaptability to multiple steering gear types is improved, but the interface design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a universal coupler as an intermediary component that bridges the assist system to various steering gear types. The coupler is designed with standardized interface features that can accommodate different steering gear configurations (recirculating ball, rack and pinion, and other hydraulic gears) without requiring complex custom interfaces for each gear type. This intermediary component simplifies the overall interface design while maintaining broad compatibility.
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect of the invention, a power steering assist system is provided. The system includes a housing, an actuator assembly, a rotary valve assembly, a bearing assembly, a differential pressure transducer, and a coupler. The coupler includes a first end and a free second end, the free second end extending from the housing and configured to couple to a component of a steering gear system.