1886: Carl Benz patents the first automobile—a groundbreaking step forward.
But have you ever wondered why this early vehicle had only one front wheel? At the time, Benz used this design to simplify one of the greatest challenges in automotive development: steering.
More than a century later, engineers at the German Aerospace Center faced a similar challenge. In recent years, the research institute developed a truly unique vehicle: the ROboMObil. Like a crab, it can rotate on the spot or even move sideways.
This is made possible by so-called wheel robots. Each of the four wheels has its own drive, steering, suspension, and braking system.
The technology was groundbreaking—but controlling all four wheels with a traditional steering wheel initially seemed impossible. A steering wheel can control only one axis, but not lateral movement.
Time for New Concepts – Time for Sensodrive
In this challenging joint project with the DLR, Sensodrive integrated one of its innovative Force Feedback joysticks into the ROboMObil.
The SensoStick features three active degrees of freedom and effortlessly handles the vehicle’s complex steering requirements. Thanks to its highly sensitive Force Feedback technology, the operator can control the ROboMObil intuitively and safely.
The End of the Steering Wheel?
With the ROboMObil, the era of traditional steering wheels is beginning to fade.
The rapid advancements in the automotive industry - up to fully autonomous driving - demand new ideas and modern technologies.
Be ready for what’s next. We are.
Force Feedback Joystick SensoStick
