SENSOR ARRANGEMENT AND DEVICE

Abstract

Sensor arrangement (100), comprising: a case (120); an angle sensor (110) provided in the housing (120); and a humidity sensor (150) which is provided in the housing (120), wherein the humidity sensor (150) comprises a ground electrode (151), a first input electrode (152), a second input electrode (153) and a control unit (170) which is electrically connected to the ground electrode (151), the first input electrode (152) and the second input electrode (153) to detect humidity, the ground electrode (151), the first input electrode (152) and the second input electrode (153) extend downwards from the housing (120), a lower end of the ground electrode (151), a lower end of the first input electrode (152) and a lower end of the second input electrode (153) are exposed towards the outside of the housing (120), and the first input electrode (152) extends downwards at a different height compared to the second input electrode (153).

Description

BACKGROUND 1. Area

[0001] The embodiments disclosed herein relate to an integrated sensor arrangement comprising: an angle sensor incorporated into a steering device for the movement of vehicle wheels, and a moisture sensor designed to detect the ingress of moisture into an assembly, as well as a device containing these and a moisture detection method performed by such a sensor arrangement. 2. Description of the state of the art

[0002] Generally, power steering systems are designed and used in vehicle steering systems to assist the driver in handling the steering wheel and to improve the driving experience. There are various types of power steering systems, such as hydraulic steering using hydraulic pressure, electro-hydraulic steering which utilizes both hydraulic pressure and the electric motor's power, electric steering which uses only the motor's electric power, and so on.

[0003] Recently, steer-by-wire (SBW) steering systems have been developed and deployed, which steer a vehicle using a motor, such as an electric motor, while removing mechanical linkage devices such as a steering column, a universal joint or a pinion shaft between a steering wheel and the wheels.

[0004] The SBW steering system is an intelligent electric signal steering mechanism that converts the driver's steering intention into electrical signals. These signals then control the steering wheel and the vehicle's wheels, allowing the driver to steer the vehicle without a mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels.

[0005] The SBW steering device includes a steering wheel actuator (RWA) that transmits the driver's steering intention to the vehicle's wheels in order to move the wheels, and a steering feedback actuator (SFA) that provides the driver with a steering wheel response force.

[0006] The smoke and heat exhaust ventilation (SHEV) system is equipped with an angle sensor that detects the steering angles of the wheels. However, if moisture penetrates the SHEV system, it can potentially lead to malfunctions in electronic components such as the angle sensor, or even render the SHEV system unusable due to water damage. Therefore, a technology for detecting water ingress is necessary to mitigate risks that could impair vehicle operation in advance.

[0007] Various power steering systems and devices, as well as steering mechanisms, are known in the prior art, for example, from DE 10 2014 009 111 A1, US 2019 / 0 047 611 A1, and DE 10 2019 214 406 A1. A sensor for measuring the level of electrically conductive liquid is known from DE 695 06 436 T2.

[0008] The purpose of the present disclosure is therefore to specify an improved sensor arrangement. SUMMARY

[0009] Therefore, an aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an integrated sensor arrangement according to claim 1, comprising: an angle sensor incorporated into a steering device for the movement of vehicle wheels, and a moisture sensor designed to detect the ingress of moisture into an assembly, as well as a device containing this sensor arrangement.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a device according to claim 11 is provided. Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a moisture detection method according to claim 12 is provided for a sensor arrangement.

[0011] Advantageous further training is the subject of the sub-claims.

[0012] Further aspects of the revelation are partly explained in the following description and partly evident from the description or can be learned through practical application of the revelation.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a sensor arrangement comprises a housing, an angle sensor provided in the housing, and a humidity sensor provided in the housing. The humidity sensor comprises a ground electrode, a first input electrode, a second input electrode, and a control unit electrically connected to the ground electrode, the first input electrode, and the second input electrode to detect humidity. The ground electrode, the first input electrode, and the second input electrode extend downward from the housing. A lower end of the ground electrode, a lower end of the first input electrode, and a lower end of the second input electrode are open to the outside of the housing. Furthermore, the first input electrode extends downward at a different level than the second input electrode.

[0014] The first input electrode extends further downwards compared to the second input electrode.

[0015] The ground electrode extends downwards to the same height as the first input electrode.

[0016] The control unit can detect a first input electrode voltage between the ground electrode and the first input electrode, detect a second input electrode voltage between the ground electrode and the second input electrode, and output a water level detection signal based on the first input electrode voltage and the second input electrode voltage.

[0017] The control unit can compare the first input electrode voltage with a first reference voltage and output a first water level detection signal.

[0018] The control unit can compare the second input electrode voltage with a second reference voltage and output a second water level detection signal.

[0019] The control unit can detect a first input electrode current between the ground electrode and the first input electrode, detect a second input electrode current between the ground electrode and the second input electrode, and output a water level detection signal based on the first input electrode current and the second input electrode current.

[0020] The humidity sensor may further include a third input electrode extending downwards from the housing, with a lower end of the third input electrode being exposed to the outside of the housing, and the first input electrode, the second input electrode and the third input electrode extending downwards at different heights that differ from each other.

[0021] The humidity sensor also includes a third input electrode. Furthermore, the first input electrode extends further downwards compared to the second input electrode, and the second input electrode extends further downwards compared to the third input electrode.

[0022] The humidity sensor may also include an electrode protection part designed to enclose the sides of the ground electrode, the first input electrode, and the second input electrode with an open lower end.

[0023] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the device comprises a pinion shaft coupled to a rack housing in which a rack is installed and which is provided with a pinion engaging with a rack gear, as well as a sensor assembly housed in the rack housing and coupled to the pinion shaft to detect a rotation angle of the pinion shaft. The sensor assembly comprises a housing, an angle sensor within the housing, and a humidity sensor within the housing. The humidity sensor comprises a ground electrode, a first input electrode, a second input electrode, and a control unit electrically connected to the ground electrode, the first input electrode, and the second input electrode to detect humidity.The ground electrode, the first input electrode, and the second input electrode extend downwards from the housing, with a lower end of the ground electrode and a lower end of the first input electrode. Furthermore, a lower end of the second input electrode is exposed to the outside of the housing, and the height of the lower end of the first input electrode and the height of the lower end of the second input electrode, both measured from a lower inner surface of a moisture reservoir of the rack housing, may differ.

[0024] The height of the lower end of the first input electrode is lower than the height of the lower end of the second input electrode.

[0025] The height of the lower end of the ground electrode, measured from the lower inner surface of the moisture reservoir of the rack housing, is equal to the height of the lower end of the first input electrode.

[0026] The control unit can detect a first input electrode voltage between the ground electrode and the first input electrode, detect a second input electrode voltage between the ground electrode and the second input electrode, and output a water level detection signal based on the first input electrode voltage and the second input electrode voltage.

[0027] The control unit can compare the first input electrode voltage with a first reference voltage and output a first water level detection signal.

[0028] The control unit can compare the second input electrode voltage with a second reference voltage and output a second water level detection signal.

[0029] The lower end of the ground electrode, the lower end of the first input electrode, and the lower end of the second input electrode can be arranged so that they are exposed in the water reservoir that collects moisture introduced into the rack housing.

[0030] According to the further aspect of the present disclosure, the moisture detection method is provided for a sensor arrangement comprising a housing, a ground electrode, a first input electrode and a second input electrode, wherein the ground electrode, the first input electrode and the second input electrode extend downwards from the housing and have lower ends exposed to the outside of the housing, the method comprising sensing a first input electrode voltage between the ground electrode and the first input electrode, sensing a second input electrode voltage between the ground electrode and the second input electrode and outputting a water level detection signal based on the first input electrode voltage and the second input electrode voltage.

[0031] Outputting the water level sensing signal can include outputting an initial water level sensing signal by comparing the initial input electrode voltage with an initial reference voltage.

[0032] Outputting the water level sensing signal can include outputting a second water level sensing signal by comparing the second input electrode voltage with a second reference voltage. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] These and / or other aspects of the present disclosure will be evident and easier to understand from the following description of the exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings: Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle's steering mechanism; Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view of an angle sensor arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. Figure 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a steering device with an angle sensor arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view along a line AA' of the Fig. 3; Fig. Figure 5 is a representation showing the configuration of a control circuit in an angle sensor arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a moisture detection process of an angle sensor arrangement according to an embodiment; Fig. Figure 7 is a representation showing the arrangement of the electrodes of an angle sensor arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a moisture detection process of an angle sensor arrangement according to an embodiment; Fig. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a moisture detection process of an angle sensor arrangement according to one embodiment; and Fig. Figure 10 is a representation showing an example of the arrangement of electrodes of an angle sensor arrangement according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The following detailed description is intended to help the reader gain a comprehensive understanding of the processes, devices, and / or systems described herein. Accordingly, various changes, modifications, and equivalents of the processes, devices, and / or systems described herein are suggested to those skilled in the art. The described sequence of processing operations is an example; however, the sequence of operations is not limited to the order presented here and may be modified according to the prior art, with the exception of those operations that necessarily occur in a specific sequence. Furthermore, the description of known functions and designs may be omitted to increase clarity and conciseness.

[0035] Furthermore, exemplary embodiments are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can take many different forms and should not be interpreted as being limited to the embodiments presented here. These embodiments are provided to ensure that this disclosure is thorough and complete and that the exemplary embodiments are fully conveyed to those skilled in the art. Reference numerals throughout denote identical elements.

[0036] It should be clarified that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe different elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. As used here, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related items listed.

[0037] It should be clarified that when an element is described as "connected" or "coupled" to another, it may be directly connected or coupled to that other element, or there may be elements in between. Conversely, when an element is described as "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements.

[0038] The terminology used here serves only to describe specific examples and is not to be understood as restrictive. As used herein, the singular forms "ein, eine" and "der, die, das" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise.

[0039] The expression “at least one of a, b and c” is to be understood as including only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c or all of a, b and c.

[0040] Reference is now made in detail to the embodiments of the present disclosure, which are shown in the accompanying drawing, where the same reference numerals refer to the same elements.

[0041] Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle's steering mechanism. Fig. Figure 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a steering device with an angle sensor arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0042] Fig. Figure 1 shows a vehicle steering device 1, in particular a load wheel actuator of a steer-by-wire (SBW) steering device. In the following, the steering device 1 is described as an SBW steering device, but is not limited to this and can be an electric power steering device.

[0043] With reference to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 3. The steering device 1 of the vehicle can comprise a rack 11, both ends of which are connected to the sides of the wheels, a rack housing 10 in which the rack 11 is housed and installed, and an electric actuator 20, which is configured to supply energy when it is supplied with electrical energy. In this case, the electric actuator 20 can comprise a motor 22, a gearbox 23 for transmitting the energy supplied by the motor 22 to the rack 11, and a motor control unit 21 for controlling the operation of the motor 22.

[0044] The motor 22 serves to generate and supply energy for the vehicle's steering when electrical energy is supplied to it from a power source, such as a vehicle battery. The operation of the motor 22 can be controlled by the motor control unit 21 when an operating signal is transmitted to the motor 22 from an electronic control unit (ECU) of the steering device 1, and the motor 22 and the motor control unit 21 can be configured together as a single drive unit. For this purpose, a motor housing containing the motor 22 and the motor control unit 21 can be joined together by a fastening element such as a screw, a clamp, or the like.

[0045] In particular, a rear part (a left side, see Fig. 1) of the engine casing and a front part (a right side, see Fig. 1) the motor control unit 21 are connected to each other to form a drive unit, and a rear part (a left side, see Fig. 1) The engine control unit 21 can be equipped with a plurality of plugs for electrical connection to a vehicle battery and the ECU.

[0046] In one embodiment, the control unit and the motor control unit 21 can be designed as a single unit.

[0047] The motor 22 can be supplied with electrical energy and generate a rotational force. The motor 22 can be configured as a bidirectional motor 22 to allow translational movement of the rack 11 in the lateral direction. Accordingly, the rack 11 can perform a translational movement to one side when the motor 22 rotates in one direction, and a translational movement to the other side when the motor 22 rotates in the other direction to steer the wheels. The motor 22 can be a generally known motor 22 comprising a rotor, a stator, and the like, and the motor housing can be designed to accommodate these components.

[0048] A drive shaft of the motor 22 may be exposed on one side of the transmission assembly 23, which is located at a front part (a right side, see Fig. 1) of the motor housing. The drive shaft can be coupled to an input shaft of the gearbox assembly 23, which is described below, via a damping coupling (not shown), so that the drive shaft of the motor 22 and the input shaft of the gearbox assembly 23 can be operated together.

[0049] The motor housing and a gearbox housing of the gearbox assembly 23 can be joined and coupled together with a fastening element, such as a bolt. An O-ring can be provided between the motor housing and the gearbox housing to prevent the ingress of moisture or foreign matter.

[0050] The gear assembly 23 is arranged between the motor 22 and the rack 11 to reduce the energy generated by the motor 22 and to transfer the reduced energy to the rack 11.

[0051] The gearbox assembly 23 can include the gearbox housing, which is designed to accommodate and install components therein, the input shaft to which the energy from the motor 22 is transferred, a reduction gear for slowing down the energy transferred to the input shaft, an output shaft for transferring the energy reduced by the reduction gear to the rack 11, and a sealing element provided on the input shaft and the output shaft to prevent the leakage of lubricant and the ingress of moisture from the outside into the reduction gear.

[0052] The rack 11 can extend in the lateral direction of the vehicle in the form of a rod, and its two ends can each be connected to a pair of wheels (not shown) via a ball joint and a tie rod 12. The rack 11 can be provided with a rack and pinion to transmit translational movement in the lateral direction (left and right directions). Fig. 1) by means of the rotational force transmitted by the transmission assembly 23, which is described below, and the rack and pinion can engage with a pinion of a pinion shaft 15, which is described below. A pair of wheels mounted at both ends of the vehicle can be steered by the translational movement of the rack 11.

[0053] The pinion shaft 15 is connected to the rack teeth of the rack 11 via the pinion and is rotated during the translational movement of the rack 11. In this case, the angle sensor detects a rotation angle of the pinion shaft 15. The angle sensor is designed to detect the rotation angle of the pinion shaft 15 and transmits information about the detected rotation angle to the ECU of the steering device 1 in order to detect the translational movement of the rack 11. The angle sensor can be provided in the form of an angle sensor assembly 100.

[0054] The ECU of the steering device 1 can detect the translational movement of the rack 11 based on the rotation angle of the pinion shaft 15 and operate the motor 22 of the electric actuator 20 so that the rack 11 can perform the translational movement in response to a steering signal according to the steering intention of the driver via a steering wheel (not shown).

[0055] The rack 11 can be received and installed inside the rack housing 10. In particular, the rack housing 10 can be hollow to provide a receiving space for the rack 11, and a pair of expandable bellows 13 can be provided at both ends of the rack housing 10. The two bellows 13 can be designed to surround at least part of both ends of the rack 11 and the ball joint, and they comprise several corrugated sections that can be easily modified in shape according to the translational movement of the rack 11. The pair of bellows 13 can be connected to both ends of the rack housing 10 by a steel band, and an interior space between the pair of bellows 13 can be connected to the receiving space of the rack housing 10.The bellows 13 surround at least part of both ends of the rack 11 and the ball joint to prevent the ingress of foreign bodies or moisture into the ball joint.

[0056] Despite the O-ring, the sealing element, and the bellows 13, moisture can penetrate the interior of the rack housing 10. The moisture penetrating the interior of the rack housing 10 is collected at a low point 16 of the rack housing 10. Generally, this low point is located at the lower end of the pinion shaft 15.

[0057] The angle sensor arrangement 100 of the present embodiment is able to detect the ingress of moisture into the rack housing 10 in order to avoid a risk factor that may occur in the vehicle.

[0058] Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view of an angle sensor arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a steering device with an angle sensor arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view along line AA' of the Fig. 3. Fig. Figure 5 is a representation showing the configuration of a control circuit in an angle sensor arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0059] The Fig. Figures 2 to 5 show an angle sensor arrangement 100 of the present embodiment. The angle sensor arrangement according to the present embodiment is housed inside the rack housing 10 and connected to the pinion shaft 15 in order to detect the angle of rotation of the pinion shaft 15.

[0060] The angle sensor arrangement 100 according to the present embodiment comprises an angle sensor 110, a humidity sensor 150 and a housing 120.

[0061] The angle sensor 110 is connected to the pinion shaft 15. The angle sensor 110 can be used to measure the angle of rotation of the pinion shaft 15, which is rotated due to a translational movement of the rack 11 when the motor 22 is driven.

[0062] The angle sensor 110 can comprise a rotating part 111 that is connected to the pinion shaft 15 and rotates together with the rotation of the pinion shaft 15, and a mounting part 112 that is attached to the rack housing 10 to detect the rotation of the rotating part 111.

[0063] The angle sensor 110 can be used to measure the rotation angle of the pinion shaft 15 and transmit a measured value to the ECU of the steering device 1. The angle sensor 110 is known from the prior art, so a detailed description is omitted here.

[0064] The humidity sensor 150 can be designed to detect moisture introduced into the rack housing 10. The humidity sensor 150 can contain a plurality of outward-facing electrodes for measuring the humidity.

[0065] The humidity sensor 150 can include a control unit 170. The control unit 170 can be electrically connected to the multiple electrodes of the humidity sensor 150 in order to process detected signals and transmit the result of the processed detected signals to an external device.

[0066] The control unit 170 can comprise a circuit on a substrate and a plurality of electronic components mounted on the substrate, as in Fig. 4 shown.

[0067] The angle sensor 110, the humidity sensor 150, and the control unit 170 are housed in the casing 120. The angle sensor 110, the humidity sensor 150, and the control unit 170 are integrated into the casing 120 and designed as a single unit, so that the angle sensor assembly 100 can be easily installed in or removed from the rack housing 10.

[0068] Housing 120 can accommodate a connector 130. Connector 130 can be electrically connected to a vehicle battery and external devices to receive power and to send and receive electrical signals.

[0069] As in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the humidity sensor 150 can comprise a ground electrode 151, a first input electrode 152 and a second input electrode 153.

[0070] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152 and the second input electrode 153 extend downwards from the housing 120, and their lower ends are open to the outside of the housing 120.

[0071] Preferably, the lower ends of the ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152 and the second input electrode 153 are arranged such that they are exposed to a moisture storage part 17 provided inside the rack housing 10 in order to collect moisture introduced into the rack housing 10.

[0072] The moisture storage section 17 is located near the low point 16 on an interior surface of the rack housing 10, so that introduced moisture can be collected in the moisture storage section 17 as it flows downwards. Since the lower ends of the ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152, and the second input electrode 153 are exposed in the moisture storage section 17, moisture can come into contact with these electrodes when it accumulates. The moisture sensor 150 can detect moisture when it comes into contact with these electrodes.

[0073] The humidity sensor 150 can further include an electrode protection part 155, which encloses the sides of the ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152, and the second input electrode 153 with an open lower end. The electrode protection part 155 covers the sides of the ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152, and the second input electrode 153 to prevent damage to them, while the lower ends of the ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152, and the second input electrode 153 remain open to the outside.

[0074] The height of the lower end of the first input electrode 152 and the height of the second input electrode 153, both measured from the lower inner surface of the moisture reservoir, are different. Preferably, the height of the lower end of the first input electrode 152 is lower than the height of the lower end of the second input electrode 153. That is, the first input electrode 152 extends further downwards than the second input electrode 153. Thus, the first input electrode 152 can detect moisture at a lower position than the second input electrode 153.

[0075] The height of the lower end of the mass electrode 151, measured from the lower inner surface of the moisture reservoir, is equal to the height of the lower end of the first input electrode 152.

[0076] In this case, the lower end of the ground electrode 151 and the first input electrode 152 preferably protrude from the bottom of the angle sensor assembly 100. If the lower ends of the ground electrode 151 and the first input electrode 152 protrude from the bottom of the angle sensor assembly 100, the ground electrode 151 and the first input electrode 152 can detect moisture before other components of the angle sensor assembly 100 are affected by the moisture.

[0077] The control unit 170 can be integrated with a control unit of the angle sensor 110. The control unit 170 can be electrically connected to the angle sensor 110 to process a measured value and transmit the measured value to an external device.

[0078] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 170 can contain a controller 175 that processes the data acquired by the angle sensor 110 and the humidity sensor 150. Further components in the control unit 170 that support the controller 175 in data processing are: an angle detector 171, a protection circuit 172, a humidity detector 173, and a signal processor 174. In one embodiment, the angle detector 171, the protection circuit 172, the humidity detector 173, the signal processor 174, and the controller 175 can be implemented as separate semiconductor devices or together as a single semiconductor device.

[0079] The angle detector 171 is electrically connected to the angle sensor 110 to process the acquired data. The angle detector 171 can receive and process the data output by the angle sensor 110 to determine and output a rotation angle of the pinion shaft 15.

[0080] The moisture detector 173 can be electrically connected to the multiple electrodes 151, 152 and 153 to process a measurement from these electrodes and generate a moisture detection signal.

[0081] The protective circuit section 172 protects the control unit 170 if the control unit 170 is affected by moisture. The control unit 170 can be electrically connected via the moisture detector 173 to the ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152, and the second input electrode 153. Since these electrodes 151, 152, and 153 could be exposed outside the housing 120, they could come into contact with moisture. This could lead to problems such as overcurrent or overvoltage within the control unit 170 due to moisture. To prevent such complications, the protective circuit section 172 is provided, which interrupts the circuit to protect the circuit if such a problem occurs.

[0082] The moisture detector 173 receives the data acquired by the ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152 and the second input electrode 153.

[0083] The signal processor 174 can process the data acquired by the moisture detector 173 to generate a moisture detection signal and transmit the moisture detection signal to the controller 175. A method for generating a moisture detection signal by the moisture detector 173 and the signal processor 174 via the ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152, and the second input electrode 153 is described in detail below.

[0084] The controller 175 can receive information about a rotation angle from the angle detector 171 connected to it and receive and process a moisture detection signal from the signal processor 174.

[0085] The controller 175 can be configured to process the data acquired by the angle sensor 110 and the humidity sensor 150. In one embodiment, the controller 175 can process the data acquired by the angle sensor 110 and the humidity sensor 150 and transmit a result of the processed data to the ECU of the steering device 1.

[0086] In another embodiment, the controller 175 can also be integrated into the ECU of the steering device 1.

[0087] The Controller 175 can contain a variety of semiconductor components and is referred to by various terms, such as ECU. The Controller 175 comprises a Memory 175b and a Processor 175a. The Memory 175b and the Processor 175a can be implemented as separate semiconductor components or as a single semiconductor component. The Controller 175 can include multiple processors and / or multiple Memory components.

[0088] Memory 175b can store a program and data for moisture detection by the moisture detector 173 and the signal processor 174. For example, memory 175b can store a program and data for detecting and processing a voltage between the ground electrode 151 and the first input electrode 152 of the moisture sensor 150 to determine whether moisture is detected, to generate an initial water level detection signal, and to transmit the initial water level detection signal to an external device. Furthermore, memory 175b can store a reference voltage, which serves as a criterion for determining whether moisture has been detected.

[0089] Memory 175b can provide the program and data to processor 175a and can store temporary data generated during a calculation operation of processor 175a.

[0090] Examples of 175b memory include volatile memory such as static random-access memory (SRAM) or dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), and non-volatile memory such as read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or flash memory. The 175b memory can contain one or more semiconductor devices.

[0091] The processor 175a can generate a humidity detection signal via the humidity detector 173 and the signal processor 174 according to the program and the data supplied by the memory 175b, and transmit the generated humidity detection signal to an external device. For example, the processor 175a can forward the humidity detection signal to the ECU of the steering device 1 to prevent the occurrence of anomalies in a steering function, and forward the humidity detection signal to a body control module (BCM) of the vehicle to display a notification of detected humidity or to warn a driver or the driver of another vehicle of the occurrence of anomalies in the vehicle.

[0092] The 175a processor can include an arithmetic circuit, a memory circuit, and a control circuit. The 175a processor can contain one or more semiconductor devices. The 175a processor can contain one or more cores within a semiconductor device. The 175a processor can be referred to by various terms, such as microprocessor unit (MPU).

[0093] As described above, the controller 175 can generate a humidity sensing signal based on information supplied by the ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152, and the associated second input electrode 153. Furthermore, the controller 175 can send a communication message to transmit the generated humidity sensing signal to external devices.

[0094] The following describes a moisture detection process carried out by the control unit 170 of the angle sensor arrangement 100.

[0095] Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a moisture detection process of an angle sensor arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0096] As described above, the angle sensor arrangement 100 according to the present embodiment comprises the ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152 and the second input electrode 153, which extend downwards from the housing 120, with their lower ends exposed outside the housing 120.

[0097] The control unit 170 can detect moisture based on the electrical conductivities of the ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152, and the second input electrode 153, which are oriented outwards. For example, the moisture detector 173 measures the electrical conductivity by applying voltages or currents to the ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152, and the second input electrode 153 to generate an electrical signal, and the signal processor processes the generated electrical signal by offsetting, amplifying, linearizing, etc., to determine whether moisture is detected.

[0098] Referring to Fig. 6. According to the present embodiment, the control unit 170 of the angle sensor arrangement 100 detects an input electrode voltage V_i between the ground electrode 151 and the input electrodes 152 and 153 (210) in a moisture detection method 200 carried out by the control unit. The control unit 170 can output a water level detection signal based on the input electrode voltage V_i. The control unit 170 can detect a change in the voltage between the ground electrode 151 and the input electrodes 152 and 153 and output a water level detection signal if moisture is present between the lower ends of the ground electrode 151 and the input electrodes 152 and 153.

[0099] In particular, the control unit 170 can compare the input electrode voltage V_i with a reference voltage V_r (220) and output a water level detection signal (230). The water level detection signal cannot be output if the comparison of the input electrode voltage V_i with the reference voltage V_r (220) shows that the input electrode voltage V_i is higher than the reference voltage V_r (yes from 220 onwards), and can be output in step 230 if the comparison shows that the input electrode voltage V_i is either equal to or lower than the reference voltage V_r (no from 220 onwards). If moisture is present between the lower ends of the ground electrode 151 and the externally exposed input electrodes 152 and 153, it can create an electrical connection between these electrodes. In this case, the voltage can drop.Consequently, the control unit 170 can detect the presence of moisture by comparing the voltage of the input electrode V_i with the reference voltage V_r.

[0100] Although Fig. Figure 6 shows the embodiment in which the control unit 170 detects the input electrode voltage V_i between the ground electrode 151 and the input electrodes 152 and 153 in order to detect moisture. In another embodiment, the control unit 170 can detect an input electrode current I_i between the ground electrode 151 and the input electrodes 152 and 153 in order to detect moisture.

[0101] In particular, the control unit 170 can detect the input electrode current I_i between the ground electrode 151 and the input electrodes 152 and 153 and output a water level detection signal based on the input electrode current I_i. In this case, the control unit 170 can store a reference current I_r to determine whether the water level detection signal should be output.

[0102] Fig. Figure 7 is a representation showing the arrangement of the electrodes of an angle sensor arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0103] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the humidity sensor 150 comprises a ground electrode 151 and a plurality of input electrodes 152 and 153. In this case, the height of the lower end of the first input electrode 152 and the height of the lower end of the second input electrode 153, both measured from a lower inner surface of a moisture storage tray of the rack housing, differ from each other. Preferably, the height of the lower end of the first input electrode 152 is lower than the height of the lower end of the second input electrode 153.

[0104] The height of the lower end of the ground electrode, measured from the lower inner surface of the moisture storage tray, is equal to the height of the lower end of the first input electrode.

[0105] Since the lower ends of the two input electrodes 152 and 153 are at different heights, the two input electrodes 152 and 153 can detect moisture at different heights.

[0106] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the first input electrode 152 can come into contact with the moisture and thus detect it when the moisture content in the rack housing 10 reaches a certain initial water level. In this case, the second input electrode 153 does not come into contact with the moisture and therefore cannot detect it.

[0107] If the moisture content in the rack housing 10 reaches a second water level, the second input electrode 153 can come into contact with the moisture and thus detect it. In this case, the first input electrode 152 can also come into contact with the moisture and thus detect it.

[0108] This means that the control unit 170 can generate a humidity detection signal depending on a degree of fluctuation by independently detecting the humidity via the first input electrode 152 and the second input electrode 153.

[0109] The Fig. 8 and Fig. Figure 9 shows the moisture detection methods 300 and 400 for detecting moisture through the first input electrode 152 and the second input electrode 153.

[0110] Fig. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a moisture detection process of an angle sensor arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0111] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 170 detects a first input electrode voltage V_i1 between the ground electrode 151 and the first input electrode 152 and a second input electrode voltage V_i2 between the ground electrode 151 and the second input electrode 153 (310). In the present disclosure, the ground electrode 151 is typically used for detecting the first input electrode voltage V_i1 and the second input electrode voltage V_i2, thereby reducing the number of electrodes of the humidity sensor 150 and minimizing its size. The control unit 170 can output a water level detection signal based on the voltage of the first input electrode V_i1 and the voltage of the second input electrode V_i2.

[0112] In particular, the control unit 170 can compare the first input electrode voltage V_i1 with a first reference voltage V_r1 (321) and output a first water level detection signal (331). The first reference voltage V_r1 can be predefined. The control unit 170 can compare the first input electrode voltage V_i1 with the first reference voltage V_r1 (321) and not output a water level detection signal if the first input electrode voltage V_i1 is higher than the first reference voltage V_r1 (yes from 321), and can output the first water level detection signal in step 331 if the first input electrode voltage V_i1 is either equal to or lower than the first reference voltage V_r1 (no from 321).

[0113] Meanwhile, the control unit 170 can compare the second input electrode voltage V_i2 with a second reference voltage V_r2 (322) and output a second water level detection signal (332). The second reference voltage V_r2 can be predefined. The control unit 170 can compare the second input electrode voltage V_i2 with the second reference voltage V_r2 (322) and not output a water level detection signal if the second input electrode voltage V_i2 is higher than the second reference voltage V_r2 (yes from 322 onwards), and can output the second water level detection signal in step 332 if the second input electrode voltage V_i2 is either equal to or lower than the second reference voltage V_r2 (no from 322 onwards).

[0114] In this case, the second reference voltage V_r2 and the first reference voltage V_r1 can have different values.

[0115] As described above, in another embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit 170 can detect moisture by detecting a first input electrode current I_i1 between the ground electrode 151 and the first input electrode 152 and a second input electrode current I_i2 between the ground electrode 151 and the second input electrode 153.

[0116] In particular, the control unit 170 can detect the first input electrode current I_i1 between the ground electrode 151 and the first input electrode 152, detect the second input electrode current I_i2 between the ground electrode 151 and the second input electrode 153, output a first water level signal in response to the first input electrode current I_i1, and output a second water level signal in response to the second input electrode current I_i2. In this case, the control unit 170 can store a first reference current I_r1 and a second reference current I_r2 to determine whether a water level detection signal should be output. The first reference current I_r1 and the second reference current I_r2 can be predefined.

[0117] Fig. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a moisture detection process of an angle sensor arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0118] In the moisture detection method 400 of the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, the control unit 170 detects the first input electrode voltage V_i1 between the ground electrode 151 and the first input electrode 152 and the second input electrode voltage V_i2 between the ground electrode 151 and the second input electrode 153 (410). The control unit 170 can output a water level detection signal based on the voltage of the first input electrode V_i1 and the voltage of the second input electrode V_i2.

[0119] In particular, the control unit 170 compares the first input electrode voltage V_i1 with the first reference voltage V_r1 (421) and does not output the water level detection signal if the first input electrode voltage V_i1 is higher than the first reference voltage V_r1 (yes, from 421). Since in this case the first water level that is lower than the one in Fig. Since the second water level shown in Figure 7 is not reached, it is not necessary to make a decision regarding the second input electrode voltage V_i2.

[0120] If, meanwhile, the first input electrode voltage V_i1 is either equal to or lower than the first reference voltage V_r1 (not from 421 onwards), the control unit 170 compares the second input electrode voltage V_i2 with the second reference voltage V_r2 (422). Then, in step 431, the control unit 170 outputs a first water level detection signal if the second input electrode voltage V_i2 is higher than the second reference voltage V_r2 (yes from 422). In other words, the control unit 170 outputs the first water level detection signal if it determines that the first water level has been reached, which is evidenced by the fact that the first input electrode voltage V_i1 is equal to or lower than the first reference voltage V_r1 (no from 421 onwards), and the second water level has not been reached, which is evidenced by the fact that the second input electrode voltage V_i2 is higher than the second reference voltage V_r2 (yes from 422 onwards).

[0121] Meanwhile, the control unit 170 can output a second water level detection signal (432) if the second input electrode voltage V_i2 is equal to or lower than the second reference voltage V_r2 (no in step 422). That is, the control unit 170 outputs the second water level detection signal in step 432 when it determines that the second water level has been reached, which is confirmed by the fact that the second input electrode voltage V_i2 is equal to or lower than the second reference voltage V_r2 (no in step 422).

[0122] As described above, the control unit 170 in the embodiment of Fig. 9. sequentially output water level detection signals without making independent decisions for the first input electrode voltage V_i1 and the second input electrode voltage V_i2, unlike in the embodiment of Fig. 8.

[0123] Fig. Figure 10 is a representation showing an example of the arrangement of electrodes of an angle sensor arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0124] Fig. Figure 10 shows an example of a humidity sensor 150 with three input electrodes 152, 153 and 154. Compared to the embodiment of the Fig. 7 also the third input electrode 154. The ground electrode 151, the first input electrode 152 and the second input electrode 153 are the same as in the one described in Fig. The design shown in section 7 is so detailed that a description is omitted.

[0125] The third input electrode 154 extends downwards from a housing 120 and a lower end of it is open to the outside of the housing 120, similar to the first input electrode 152 and the second input electrode 153.

[0126] In this case, the heights of the lower ends of the first input electrode 152, the second input electrode 153 and the third input electrode 154 are different in relation to the lower inner surface of the moisture reservoir.

[0127] Preferably, the height of the lower end of the first input electrode 152 is lower than the height of the lower end of the second input electrode 153, and the height of the lower end of the second input electrode 153 is lower than the height of the lower end of the third input electrode 154.

[0128] The height of the lower end of the ground electrode 151 in relation to the lower inner surface of the moisture storage tray is equal to the height of the lower end of the first input electrode 152.

[0129] Since the heights of the lower ends of the three input electrodes 152, 153 and 154 are different, the three input electrodes 152, 153 and 154 can detect moisture at different heights.

[0130] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the first input electrode 152 can come into contact with the moisture and thus detect it when the moisture content in the rack housing 10 reaches a certain initial water level. In this case, the second input electrode 153 and the third input electrode 154 do not come into contact with the moisture and therefore cannot detect it.

[0131] When the moisture content in the rack housing 10 reaches a second water level, the second input electrode 153 can come into contact with the moisture and thus detect it. In this case, the first input electrode 152 also comes into contact with the moisture and can therefore detect it, while the third input electrode 154 does not come into contact with the moisture and therefore cannot detect it.

[0132] When the moisture content in the rack housing 10 reaches a third water level, the third input electrode 154 can come into contact with the moisture and thus detect it. In this case, the first input electrode 152 and the second input electrode 153 also come into contact with the moisture and can thus detect it.

[0133] This means that the control unit 170 can generate a humidity detection signal depending on the fluctuation strength by independently detecting the humidity via the first input electrode 152, the second input electrode 153 and the third input electrode 154.

[0134] As can be seen from the above description, an angle sensor arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can inform a driver in advance of a risk factor due to moisture ingress by activating a warning light on a dashboard or a sound, or by controlling the operation of the vehicle's steering system, including the steering feedback actuator.

[0135] An angle sensor arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can be designed as an integrated assembly containing a mechanism structure and electronic devices by adding additional components to an existing angle sensor arrangement, thereby optimizing the system size.

[0136] An angle sensor arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is able to detect introduced moisture using two or more input electrodes and to detect an increase in the moisture level when the moisture level rises.

[0137] An angle sensor arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is able to detect moisture quickly by detecting moisture in a water tray part which is provided for collecting moisture introduced into a steering device.

[0138] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above. In the exemplary embodiments described above, some components can be implemented as a "module." The term "module" here refers to, but is not limited to, a software and / or hardware component, such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), that performs certain tasks. A module can advantageously be configured to reside on the addressable storage medium and to run on one or more processors.

[0139] A module can, for example, include components such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components, and task components, as well as processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables. The operations provided by the components and modules can be grouped into fewer components and modules or distributed across additional components and modules. Furthermore, the components and modules can be implemented to run one or more CPUs within a device.

[0140] In addition to the exemplary embodiments described above, embodiments can be implemented by computer-readable codes / commands in / on a medium, e.g., a computer-readable medium, to control at least one processing element that implements each exemplary embodiment described above. The medium can be any medium that allows the storage and / or transmission of the computer-readable code.

[0141] The computer-readable code can be recorded on a storage medium or transmitted over the internet. The storage medium can include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), compact disk-ready-only memories (CD-ROMs), magnetic tapes, floppy disks, and optical recording media. The medium can also be a non-transferable, computer-readable medium. The media can also be a distributed network, so that the computer-readable code is stored, transmitted, and executed in a distributed manner. Furthermore, the processing element could, for example, include at least one processor or at least one computer processor, and the processing elements can be distributed and / or contained in a single device.

[0142] While exemplary embodiments have been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure understand that other embodiments can be developed which do not deviate from the scope disclosed herein. Accordingly, the scope should be limited to the appended claims.

Claims

[1] Sensor arrangement (100) comprising: a case (120); an angle sensor (110) provided in the housing (120); and a humidity sensor (150) which is provided in the housing (120), wherein the humidity sensor (150) comprises a ground electrode (151), a first input electrode (152), a second input electrode (153) and a control unit (170) which is electrically connected to the ground electrode (151), the first input electrode (152) and the second input electrode (153) to detect humidity, the ground electrode (151), the first input electrode (152) and the second input electrode (153) extend downwards from the housing (120), a lower end of the ground electrode (151), a lower end of the first input electrode (152) and a lower end of the second input electrode (153) are exposed towards the outside of the housing (120), and the first input electrode (152) extends downwards at a different height compared to the second input electrode (153). [2] Sensor arrangement (100) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the first input electrode (152) extends further downwards compared to the second input electrode (153). [3] Sensor arrangement (100) according to claim 2, characterized by , that the ground electrode (151) extends downwards to the same height as the first input electrode (152). [4] Sensor arrangement (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by , that the control unit (170) is further set up: to detect a first input electrode voltage between the ground electrode (151) and the first input electrode (152); to detect a second input electrode voltage between the ground electrode (151) and the second input electrode (153); and to output a water level detection signal based on the first input electrode voltage and the second input electrode voltage. [5] Sensor arrangement (100) according to claim 4, characterized by , that the control unit (170) is set up: to compare the first input electrode voltage with a first reference voltage and to issue an initial water level detection signal. [6] Sensor arrangement (100) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by , that the control unit (170) is set up: to compare the second input electrode voltage with a second reference voltage and to output a second water level detection signal. [7] Sensor arrangement (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by , that the control unit (170) is further set up: to detect a first input electrode current between the ground electrode (151) and the first input electrode (152); to detect a second input electrode current between the ground electrode (151) and the second input electrode (153); and to output a water level detection signal based on the first input electrode current and the second input electrode current. [8] Sensor arrangement (100) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by , that the humidity sensor (150) further comprises a third input electrode (154), wherein the third input electrode (154) extends downwards from the housing (120), a lower end of the third input electrode (154) is exposed towards the outside of the housing (120), and the first input electrode (152), the second input electrode (153) and the third input electrode (154) extend downwards at different heights that are different from each other. [9] Sensor arrangement (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by, that the humidity sensor (150) further comprises a third input electrode (154), the first input electrode (152) extends further downwards compared to the second input electrode (153), and the second input electrode (153) extends further downwards compared to the third input electrode (154). [10] Sensor arrangement (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by , that the humidity sensor (150) further comprises an electrode protection part which is configured to enclose the sides of the ground electrode (151), the first input electrode (152) and the second input electrode (153) with an open lower end. [11] Device comprising: a pinion shaft coupled to a rack housing (10) in which a rack (11) is installed and which is provided with a pinion that engages with a rack wheel; and a sensor arrangement (100) which is housed in the rack housing (10) and coupled to the pinion shaft to detect a rotation angle of the pinion shaft, wherein the sensor arrangement (100) comprises a housing (120), an angle sensor (110) provided in the housing (120) and a humidity sensor (150) provided in the housing (120), The humidity sensor (150) comprises a ground electrode (151), a first input electrode (152), a second input electrode (153) and a control unit (170) which is electrically connected to the ground electrode (151), the first input electrode (152) and the second input electrode (153) to detect humidity, the ground electrode (151), the first input electrode (152) and the second input electrode (153) extend downwards from the housing (120), a lower end of the ground electrode (151), a lower end of the first input electrode (152) and a lower end of the second input electrode (153) are exposed towards the outside of the housing (120), and a height of the lower end of the first input electrode (152) and a height of the lower end of the second input electrode (153), both measured from a lower inner surface of a moisture storage tray of the rack housing, are different from each other. [12] Moisture detection method performed by a sensor arrangement (100) comprising a housing (120), an angle sensor (110) provided in the housing (120), and a moisture sensor (150) provided in the housing (120), wherein the moisture sensor (150) comprises a ground electrode (151), a first input electrode (152), a second input electrode (153), and a control unit (170), wherein the control unit (170) is electrically connected to the ground electrode (151), the first input electrode (152), and the second input electrode (153) to detect moisture, wherein the ground electrode (151), the first input electrode (152), and the second input electrode (153) extend downwards from the housing (120), with a lower end of the ground electrode (151), a lower end of the first input electrode (152), and a lower end of the second input electrode (153) facing the outside of the housing. (120) lie exposed,and wherein the first input electrode (152) extends downwards at a different height compared to the second input electrode (153), the moisture detection method comprising: Detection of a first input electrode voltage between the ground electrode (151) and the first input electrode (152); Detection of a second input electrode voltage between the ground electrode (151) and the second input electrode (153); and Output of a water level detection signal based on the first input electrode voltage and the second input electrode voltage. [13] Moisture detection method according to claim 12, characterized by , that the output of the water level sensing signal includes the output of a first water level sensing signal by comparing the first input electrode voltage with a first reference voltage. [14] Moisture detection method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized by , that the output of the water level detection signal includes the output of a second water level detection signal by comparing the second input electrode voltage with a second reference voltage.

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