On June 19th, it was reported that Tesla has applied for a new patent for a wire-controlled steering system. This system is based on traditional steering, eliminates the mechanical intermediate shaft, and transmits the driver’s steering intention and road information feedback through electrical signals. It is expected that this system will improve driving efficiency and provide a better steering experience.
It has been noted that as early as 2020, Tesla had already assembled a team in Austin, Texas, USA to develop a steer-by-wire system. Subsequently, Musk confirmed in 2021 that Tesla was indeed researching progressive steer-by-wire systems, but it would take a few years before they could be put into use. This patent application by Tesla indicates that steer-by-wire systems are not far from actual mass production.
According to the patent diagrams provided by Tesla, the system includes the following components:
- A steering wheel torque feedback actuator component with two controllers
- A front wheel steering actuator component with two partitioned electric motors and controllers
- Two independent power components
- Two independent vehicle communication networks
- Three special system communication networks between each node in the steering system
Tesla describes that the redundant components are partitioned, so even if one or more components fail, the system’s safety will not be compromised. This design also allows for redundancy without the need for a mechanical steering system.
