Hydraulic Steering Pressure Sensor Dynamic Torque Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydraulic power steering systems face challenges in dynamically adjusting assist torque based on driver input and vehicle conditions, leading to inefficiencies in steering effort assistance.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a pressure sensor assembly, torque sensor, and vehicle sensors that communicate with a controller to determine the required current for an electric steering assist actuator, allowing for real-time adjustments to assist torque based on driver input and vehicle conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hydraulic power steering systems use a power steering pump to provide pressurized hydraulic fluid to a steering gear, then steering assist is provided, but the system cannot dynamically adjust assist torque based on driver input and vehicle conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a pressure sensor assembly that provides feedback signals to a controller about the actual hydraulic pressure in the steering gear. The controller compares this feedback with desired pressure values and dynamically adjusts the power steering pump operation to achieve the desired assist torque based on driver input and vehicle conditions, enabling adaptive steering assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pressure control mechanisms with an electronically controlled system. A controller receives signals from pressure sensors and vehicle condition sensors, processes this information, and electronically controls the power steering pump to provide dynamic assist torque adjustment, substituting mechanical complexity with electronic control.
2Reliability
If external pressure control mechanisms are added to enable dynamic assist adjustment, then steering performance is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor assembly is integrated directly into the steering gear, merging the sensing function with the existing hydraulic steering components. This integration eliminates the need for separate external pressure control mechanisms while still enabling dynamic assist torque adjustment through electronic control of the power steering pump.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves multiple functions: it receives pressure feedback from the sensor assembly, processes vehicle condition signals, determines desired assist torque based on multiple inputs, and controls the power steering pump. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated separate control mechanisms while enhancing steering performance.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of assisting a steering effort in a hydraulic steering system is provided. The method includes measuring a pressure with a pressure sensor assembly. The method also includes calculating an input torque with a controller. The method further includes measuring at least one vehicle condition with at least one vehicle sensor and sending a vehicle condition signal to the controller. The method yet further includes determining a current required to operate an actuator with the controller.