IAA 2021: Schaeffler brings the joystick 🎥
FUTURE At the IAA Mobility (September 7 to 12) in Munich, Schaeffler Paravan Technologie is showcasing the third generation of its steer-by-wire system. "Space Drive 3 Add-On" is a key technology for autonomous driving. In the field of mechatronic systems, Schaeffler is presenting a hand wheel actuator with force feedback module for the first time, as well as mechatronic rear axle steering for greater safety and comfort when driving. [...]
In the field of mechatronic systems, Schaeffler is presenting for the first time a Hand Wheel Actuator with force feedback module as well as the mechatronic rear axle steering system for more safety and comfort when driving.
Steering commands with electronic signals
Space Drive transmits driving and steering commands in the form of electronic signals via cable directly to the wheels. Originating from mobility for the disabled, the technology has road approval, is already successfully in use in the field with more than one billion kilometers driven, and is also being further developed in racing under extreme conditions.
Mechatronic actuator technology instead of steering wheel
For the first time, Schaeffler is also showing a hand wheel actuator with force feedback module, which replaces the classic steering wheel with mechanical steering column with mechatronic actuator technology.
This allows the installation space to be optimized and makes entirely new interior concepts possible - for example, by stowing the steering wheel in the console, which will play a particularly important role in (partially) autonomous driving.
In addition, the system enables the suppression of unwanted disturbances, such as impacts from the road, and the realization of new driving dynamics functions through a variable steering ratio.
Tests by well-known development drivers
Since 2019, the Space Drive System with a joystick has been approved by the German Motor Sport Association and has been firmly anchored in the DTM regulations since 2021. In this environment, the Schaeffler Paravan technology carriers are tested by well-known development drivers, including, since 2019, Markus Winkelhock, Bernd Schneider, Timo Glock, or in the rally field - where the loads are even significantly higher - former European champion Armin Schwarz.
