Integrated Filter Module for Electric Power Steering Noise Suppression

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electric power steering devices face challenges in noise suppression and workability due to the placement of power supply circuit components, which require complex connections and result in increased noise and reduced miniaturization.

Innovation Solution

Integration of a filter module within the control unit that includes a bus bar, coil, and capacitor near the power supply connector, allowing for shorter wiring and improved assembly ease, thereby enhancing noise suppression and miniaturization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If power supply circuit components (capacitor, coil) are connected via conductive bars extending from connectors through through holes in the connector case, then the power supply circuit section can be placed outside the control unit, but the workability deteriorates due to complex assembly requiring pre-formed through holes and complicated wiring

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkability of power supply circuit assemblyVSAvoidcomplexity of connector case structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the power supply circuit components (capacitor, coil, conductive bars) with the connector case into an integrated assembly. The connector case is designed to directly hold these components without requiring separate through holes or external mounting, thereby simplifying the overall structure and improving workability while reducing assembly complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If capacitor without leg portion (such as ceramic capacitor) is used to connect to conductive bar, then component selection flexibility increases, but connection workability deteriorates due to complicated connection process

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in capacitor selectionVSAvoidease of connecting capacitor to conductive bar
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a resin layer as an intermediary between the capacitor and the conductive bar. This resin layer contains conductive particles that enable electrical connection without requiring traditional leg portions or complex welding processes. The resin layer simplifies the connection process while maintaining flexibility in capacitor selection, as capacitors can be directly mounted on the resin layer without mechanical legs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If filter parts are placed separately with extended wiring connections, then placement flexibility is maintained, but noise suppression deteriorates due to longer connection paths and distances

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplacement flexibility of filter componentsVSAvoidnoise from power supply circuit
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines all filter parts (capacitor, coil, conductive bars) into a single integrated assembly housed within the connector case. This integration minimizes the connection paths and distances between components, thereby reducing electromagnetic interference and noise while maintaining placement flexibility through the modular connector case design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This configuration enhances the placement and assembly of the filter section, achieving better noise suppression and miniaturization by reducing the length of wiring and simplifying connections, leading to improved performance and compact design.

Implementation Method 1

an electric motor rotating a steering mechanism for a vehicle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a filter module into which filter parts including at least a bus bar for electric conduction, a coil, and a capacitor are integrated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS11046356B2Electric power steering device
Publication Date: 2021.06.29 MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC MOBILITY CORP
  • US11046356B2 patent drawing
  • US11046356B2 patent drawing
  • US11046356B2 patent drawing

AI summary

[Problem]In an electric power steering device that includes a filter section, the electric power steering device in which a motor and a control unit are integrated with each other, a device that aims to improve the noise suppression function of the filter section and improve workability is provided.[Solution]In an electric power steering device that includes a filter section, the electric power steering device in which a motor and a control unit are integrated with each other, the control unit includes a filter module forming the filter section connected near a connector for power supply placed in an outermost portion, and this filter module is configured with wiring for electric conduction, coils and, and a filter substrate on which capacitors are mounted.