Variable-Speed Electric Motor Steering Pump for EVs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydraulically assisted power steering mechanisms for heavy-duty electric vehicles face inefficiencies and increased wear due to constant electric motor operation, and existing electrically assisted systems struggle to provide sufficient torque, while sensor-based control methods can lead to complex control methods and poor driver feedback.
Innovation Solution
A steering system for electric vehicles that includes a hydraulic pump driven by an electric motor, with a control unit that adjusts the motor's speed based on torque measurements from sensors to provide hydraulic steering assist only when needed, minimizing energy consumption and wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the electric motor runs continuously at fixed speed to provide hydraulic steering assist, then the steering assist force is sufficient, but energy consumption increases and component wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed-speed motor operation to variable-speed operation. The control unit adjusts the electric motor's rotational speed dynamically based on real-time steering torque demands, ensuring the motor runs faster only when high steering assist is needed and slower or idle when less assist is required, thereby reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining sufficient steering assist force when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the electric motor from constant speed to variable speed based on steering conditions. The control unit monitors steering torque and adjusts motor speed as a variable parameter, optimizing the balance between providing adequate steering assist force and minimizing energy consumption during different driving scenarios
2Force
If the electric motor runs continuously at fixed speed to provide hydraulic steering assist, then the steering assist force is sufficient, but component wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed-speed motor operation to variable-speed operation. The control unit adjusts the electric motor's rotational speed dynamically based on real-time steering torque demands, ensuring the motor runs faster only when high steering assist is needed and slower or idle when less assist is required, thereby reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining sufficient steering assist force when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by activating the electric motor and hydraulic pump only during periods when steering assistance is actually required, rather than continuous operation. The control unit periodically assesses steering torque needs and activates or deactivates the motor accordingly, reducing cumulative operating hours and wear on motor, pump, and hydraulic components
3Measurement precision
If steering sensors are added to measure driver torque, then steering control precision improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a control unit that performs multiple functions: it monitors steering torque via sensors, determines when hydraulic assistance is needed, controls electric motor speed, and manages hydraulic pump operation. By consolidating these functions into a single control unit rather than separate dedicated components for each function, the system achieves precise steering torque measurement and control while minimizing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using steering torque sensors to continuously monitor driver input and feeding this information back to the control unit. The control unit processes this feedback signal and adjusts motor speed and pump operation accordingly, enabling precise steering control through a closed-loop system that adapts to real-time steering demands without requiring overly complex control architecture
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 solution improves energy efficiency and reduces component wear by ensuring the electric motor and pump operate only when necessary, enhancing the steering experience and extending battery life in electric vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor configured to drive fluid flow through the pump
Implementation Method 2
a hydraulic pump configured to direct hydraulic fluid to a steering gearbox to assist turning of the pair of wheels
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a steering system for an electric vehicle. The steering system may include a hydraulic pump configured to direct hydraulic fluid to a steering gearbox of the electric vehicle, and an electric motor having a shaft that is coupled to the hydraulic pump. The electric motor may be configured to drive fluid flow through the pump. The steering system may also include a sensor configured to measure a value indicative of a torque applied by the electric motor, and a control unit configured to control operation of the electric motor based on an input from the sensor.