Patent for Tesla’s game-changing cable steering system

Tesla, the world’s largest producer of electric vehicles, has taken another step in revolutionizing the automotive industry with its latest patent application for cable steering technology. Using only electrical or electromechanical technologies, this cutting-edge technology eliminates mechanical links in the steering system. With numerous advantages over conventional steering systems, power-assisted steering systems represent a significant advance in vehicle design.

Advantages of Steer-by-Wire technology

Steer-by-wire technology can increase efficiency, enable better steering combinations and create cutting-edge cockpit design opportunities by eliminating mechanical linkages. Manufacturing time for electric vehicles can be dramatically reduced with fewer parts, increasing manufacturing efficiency. What’s more, by eliminating the vibrations and uneven surface effects usually transmitted by the steering wheel, this technology offers a better driving experience. This feature improves driving safety and comfort, which is particularly useful for elderly or disabled drivers.

The automaker wrote in the patent application abstract:

A cable vehicle steering system for controlling the lateral movement of the vehicle is provided. The system includes a steering wheel torque feedback actuator with two controllers, a front steering wheel steering actuator with two motors and controllers isolated by zone, two separate power supply assemblies, two separate vehicle communication networks in separate cable harness assemblies, and three private system communication networks between each steering system node. Redundant components are isolated by zone so that common causes of failure do not endanger the system when one or more of the components fails. The system may include a differential gear wheel actuator to enable absolute wheel position. The system can also include a set of position sensors, including two magnetic sensors and an inductive sensor.

Precise steering ratio and improved maneuverability

The ability of a power steering system to produce accurate steering ratios is one of its key benefits. The technology reacts to different driving factors, creating a more regulated and nuanced driving experience. For example, the wheel rotation required in tight, low-speed bends, such as in parking lots, is significantly reduced, eliminating the need for hand-in-hand steering. This feature improves mobility and makes low-speed maneuvers easier and more natural for the driver.

Overcoming regulatory challenges

Although power steering technology offers many advantages, it faces regulatory hurdles in many markets. For a vehicle to be declared compliant with road regulations in certain regions, mechanical links must be present in the steering system. Direct mechanical connections between the steering wheel and tires are favored by these laws based on current safety standards. However, the laws are expected to change to take account of developments in power steering systems as the technology advances and becomes more widely accepted.

Tesla’s progress and future implementation

This isn’t the first time Tesla has taken an interest in power steering technology. According to reports dating back to 2020, the company was in the process of assembling a team in Austin to create a cable-steering system. Later, CEO Elon Musk reaffirmed the company’s focus on progressive steering using this revolutionary technology, while emphasizing that it would still take several years to deploy. With the most recent patent filing, Tesla has taken a major step towards achieving its goal of incorporating cable-steering technology into its electric vehicles.

Tesla is expected to be at the forefront of the implementation of this revolutionary technology as competition intensifies in the electric vehicle market. With its innovative cable-steering system, Tesla is set to transform the automotive industry once again. The company’s focus on electric vehicles, autonomous driving and renewable energies has already made it an industry leader. Tesla’s commitment to innovation and sustainability will ensure that it remains a major force in the automotive world ( ).