Variable Ratio Transmission Mechanism With Self-Locking Worm Gear
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional variable ratio transmission mechanisms for automobile steering systems lack a self-locking function, resulting in a complex structure and high manufacturing costs due to the need for a complex lock mechanism to control synchronous or asynchronous rotation between steering shafts.
Innovation Solution
A variable ratio transmission mechanism incorporating a securing unit, a connecting unit, a motor with a revolving shaft, and a transmitting unit featuring a worm gear and worm configuration, allowing for self-locking and angular sliding engagement between components to adjust the rotational angle of the second steering shaft based on the rotation of the first steering shaft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional lock mechanism is used to control the rotor, then the second steering shaft can rotate synchronously or non-synchronously relative to the first steering shaft, but the structure becomes complex and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The worm gear (second transmitting component) provides self-locking function automatically, eliminating the need for a complex lock mechanism. The system serves itself by utilizing the inherent friction characteristics of the worm gear to maintain positional control and prevent reverse rotation, thereby simplifying the overall structure while maintaining the ability to control synchronous or non-synchronous rotation between steering shafts
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical lock mechanism with a worm gear transmission system. The worm gear's self-locking property inherently provides the locking function that would otherwise require additional mechanical components, thus substituting a simpler mechanical system for a more complex one while achieving the same functional outcome
2Reliability
If a lock mechanism is added to control rotor rotation, then steering shaft synchronization is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The worm gear automatically provides self-locking and synchronization control without requiring additional expensive locking components. This self-service characteristic maintains reliable steering shaft synchronization while reducing manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for complex lock mechanisms and associated parts
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a cost-effective worm gear transmission system instead of expensive lock mechanisms. The worm gear provides the necessary synchronization and locking functions at a lower manufacturing cost, making the overall system more economically viable while maintaining reliability
3Ease of operation
If the rotor lacks self-locking function, then the transmission mechanism can operate freely, but a complex lock mechanism is required to maintain control
Solution Approach 1:
The worm gear inherently provides self-locking capability, eliminating the need for external lock mechanisms. This allows the transmission mechanism to operate freely in the forward direction while automatically maintaining control and preventing reverse rotation, thus achieving ease of operation without increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the need for a complex lock mechanism with the inherent self-locking property of the worm gear. This replacement maintains free rotation operation for normal steering while automatically providing control when needed, simplifying the overall structure without compromising operational ease
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
The mechanism achieves a self-locking function with a simpler structure, enabling adjustable rotational angles for high-speed or low-speed automobile motion, enhancing steering safety while reducing manufacturing complexity and costs.
Implementation Method 1
a second transmitting component (62) that engages and is angularly-slidable relative to the first transmitting component (61)
Implementation Method 2
the mechanism achieves a self-locking function with a simpler structure
Data Source
AI summary
A variable ratio transmission mechanism is used in an automobile. The automobile includes first and second steering shafts extending along a first direction. The variable ratio transmission mechanism includes a securing unit connected to the first steering shaft, a connecting unit connected to the second steering shaft, a motor connected to the securing unit and including a revolving shaft that extends rotatably along a second direction different from the first direction, and a transmitting unit including a worm gear that is provided on the connecting unit and a worm that is provided on the revolving shaft and that engages and is angularly-slidable relative to the worm gear.