Inductive Position Sensing for Active Suspension Wheel Motion Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing position sensing systems for vehicles fail to effectively limit unwanted wheel motions caused by road disturbances, such as bumps and potholes, due to inadequate sensing and damping mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A position sensing system that includes a wire coil coupled to a wheel support, where the inductance changes in response to the movement of a target relative to the coil, allowing for the determination of the damper mass position and subsequent limitation of wheel motion through an active suspension system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a position sensing system is implemented to detect wheel motion, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position sensing mechanisms with an inductive sensing system using a coil and target. The coil generates a magnetic field that interacts with the conductive target, producing an inductive signal that directly indicates position. This substitution of mechanical sensing with electromagnetic sensing reduces device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a conductive target as an intermediary element between the coil and the measurement system. The target moves with the wheel assembly and modulates the inductive signal based on its position, enabling precise position detection without requiring direct mechanical contact or complex sensing mechanisms. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall sensing system architecture.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a damper mass is added to limit wheel motion, then wheel stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a damper mass that acts as a counterweight to unstable wheel motions. The mass is coupled to the wheel assembly through a damping mechanism, and its inertia opposes rapid or unwanted wheel movements. This passive anti-weight approach improves wheel stability without requiring complex active control systems, maintaining simplicity while achieving the desired stability enhancement.
3Ease of operation
If active suspension control is implemented based on damper mass position, then ride comfort is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where the inductive sensor continuously monitors the position of the damper mass relative to the wheel assembly. This position information is fed back to the active suspension controller, which adjusts suspension parameters to optimize ride comfort. The feedback mechanism enables adaptive control that responds only when needed, avoiding continuous energy consumption while maintaining comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The active suspension system operates using periodic sensing and control actions rather than continuous operation. The inductive sensor periodically measures damper mass position, and the controller periodically adjusts suspension parameters based on these measurements. This periodic operation reduces energy consumption compared to continuous active control while still providing effective ride comfort management.
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
The system effectively limits wheel motion by using a damper mass that moves opposite to the wheel, reducing unwanted movements like wheel hop, and adjusts the active suspension system based on the position and velocity of the damper mass to enhance ride comfort.
Implementation Method 1
An inductance of the wire coil is configured to change in response to movement of the target relative to the wire coil
Implementation Method 2
A damper mass coupled to a wheel support that is coupled to a wheel of a vehicle... configured to move relative to the wheel support in response to movement of the wheel support
Data Source
AI summary
A sensing system includes a wire coil. The wire coil is located opposite a target and the inductance of the wire coil is configured to change in response to movement of the target relative to the wire coil.