Integrated Steering Torque and Angle Sensor Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steering torque and angle measurement systems require separate components and complex installation processes, leading to increased manufacturing costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A combined steering torque and angle measurement apparatus where the steering angle signal generation part is fixed to the output shaft, outputting an OFF signal at preset rotation durations, allowing both functions to be integrated into a single assembly, reducing component count and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate torque sensor and angle sensor are installed, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the torque sensor and angle sensor into a single integrated sensor assembly. The angle sensor is fixed to the output shaft while the torque sensor measures torque on the input shaft, allowing both measurements to be obtained from one unified component structure rather than separate sensors, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensor assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously - it measures both steering torque and steering angle through a single device. The angle sensor detects rotational position of the output shaft while the torque sensor measures the torque applied to the input shaft, enabling one device to replace what would traditionally require two separate sensors.
2Measurement precision
If separate torque sensor and angle sensor are installed, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the torque sensor and angle sensor into a single integrated assembly, the patent reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured, purchased, and assembled. This integration eliminates the need for separate sensor housings, mounting brackets, and wiring harnesses, thereby reducing manufacturing cost while preserving the measurement precision achieved through dedicated sensors for each parameter.
3Measurement precision
If separate torque sensor and angle sensor are installed, then measurement precision is improved, but installation process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated sensor assembly is installed as a single unit rather than requiring separate installation of torque and angle sensors. The assembly is mounted once on the steering mechanism, with the angle sensor fixed to the output shaft and the torque sensor positioned to measure input shaft torque, simplifying the installation process while maintaining the precision benefits of dedicated sensors for each measurement function.
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 reduces the number of components, simplifies the manufacturing process, and lowers costs by enabling a single assembly for both steering torque and angle measurement, while maintaining accurate measurement capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a hall switch, and a hall switch producing a first signal when placed to face the magnet, and outputting a second signal when the round tooth faces the magnet
Implementation Method 2
a magnet fixed to the printed circuit board for producing a magnetic field
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Disclosed herein are a steering torque and steering angle measurement apparatus, the present invention including a stator fixed to an output shaft, a magnet disposed at the inner part of the stator and being fixed to an input shaft, a torque sensor measuring a steering torque by sensing a magnetic field produced between the stator and the magnet, and a steering angle signal generation part measuring the steering angle by outputting an ON signal ordinary times and outputting an OFF signal at each preset rotation duration of the output shaft when the output shaft rotates, thereby reducing a component number, simplifying a manufacturing process and saving a cost price.