Steering apparatus for vehicle
US8068954B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 24, 2008 |
| Grant date | Nov 29, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 30, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D15/02
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
There is provided a steering apparatus to ease an uncomfortable feeling given to an operator when a steering wheel is connected to a steering mechanism, on a fail. The apparatus includes a unit that varies an angular ratio of a steering angle of front wheels with respect to an operational angle of a steering wheel. The apparatus also includes a connection unit such as a electromagnetic clutch for connecting the steering wheel to the steering mechanism in order to fix the angular ratio, on a fail such as a failure of a steering motor. The apparatus also includes a rotational body which relatively rotates with respect to the steering wheel by an angular deviation upon this connection. Accordingly, since a real neutral position of the steering mechanism coincides with a neutral position recognized by a pattern on the rotational body being seen, it eases the uncomfortable feeling onto the operator.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.