Tesla's steering-by-wire system patent exposed: The steering wheel and wheels do not need to be mechanically connected and only rely on electrical signals to complete the control

According to news on June 19, Tesla has recently applied for a patent for a new steering-by-wire system. This system is based on traditional steering and eliminates the mechanical intermediate shaft. It uses electrical signals to transmit the driver's steering intention and provide road surface information feedback. It is reported that this system is expected to improve driving efficiency and provide a better steering experience.

As early as 2020, Tesla had a component team in Austin, Texas, USA, to develop a steering-by-wire system. Later, Musk confirmed in 2021 that Tesla "is indeed working on a wire-controlled progressive steering system, but it is still several years away from being put into use." Tesla's patent application this time indicates that the steering-by-wire system is not far away from actual mass production.

According to the patent drawings provided by Tesla, the system includes the following components:

• Steering wheel torque feedback actuator assembly with two controllers

• Front wheel steering actuator assembly with two zoned isolated motors and controller

• Two independent power components

• Two independent vehicle communication networks

• Steering system, three dedicated system communication networks between each node

Tesla describes that redundant components are partitioned and isolated, so even if one or more components fail, the safety of the system will not be compromised. The design will also allow for redundancy and eliminate the need for mechanical steering systems.