Popular electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla has recently filed a patent application for a steer-by-wire system. This cutting-edge technology eliminates the need for mechanical linkages in steering systems, relying solely on electrical or electromechanical components.
With the potential to enhance efficiency, revolutionize steering configurations, and redefine vehicle design, Tesla's steer-by-wire innovation is poised to shape the future of automotive technology tenfold.
What is Steering-by-Wire System?
The steering wheel of a car, as we know, should be mechanically connected to the vehicle. If it's not linked as such, there's no way that you can freely maneuver it.
As a matter of fact, there's a way to use the steering wheel without any means of mechanical connections. According to MakeUseOf, with steer-by-wire technology, the configuration only involves digital/electronic signals instead of traditional means.
It's helpful if you immediately need to take control of the steering wheel in case of an emergency. By simply customizing the feedback, you can easily shift the direction of what you're driving into.
Tesla Patents Steer-by-Wire Innovation
With the American automaker's latest patent, Tesla aims to promote the introduction of cockpit designs and efficiency and flexibility when it comes to steering configurations.
While it sounds good on paper, Tesla must comply with the regulatory requirements to make it happen. Of course, the standard requirement of mechanical linkages will ensure that what you're driving is legally permitted.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk envisions it to be a progressive component of its next-gen all-electric cars in the future. It could also help drivers in assisted driving and more endeavors.
The state-of-the-art application behind the steer-by-wire system denotes that it will take some time before it reaches the streets.
As Electrek reports, the patent will also tackle employing safety and reliability while outlining the comprehensive workflow of the whole system.
What Will Be the Components of the Steer-by-Wire System?
In the same report by Electrek, Tesla's design comprises a steering wheel torque feedback actuator assembly, a front road wheel steering actuator assembly with isolated motors and controllers, separate power assemblies, distinct communication networks, and private system communication networks.
A vehicle steering system by wire to control the lateral motion of the vehicle is provided. The system includes a steering wheel torque feedback actuator assembly with two controllers, a front road wheel steering actuator assembly with two zonally isolated motors and controllers, two separate power assemblies, two separate vehicle communication networks in separate wiring bundle assemblies, and three private system communication networks between each node in the steering system. The redundant components are zonally isolated such that common cause of faults do not endanger the system when one or more of the components fails. The system can include differential gearbox road wheel actuator to allow absolute position of the road wheels. The system can further include a set of position sensor assemblies including two magnetic and one inductive sensor assemblies.
