Integrated Torque Angle Sensor for Steering Column Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle steering systems require reliable steering torque and angle sensors that are suitable for multiple applications, cost-effective, and integrated with various steering columns, but no prior solution has met these requirements simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A torque sensor and integrated torque and angle sensor using a magnetic field generating element and detection coils to detect steering torque and angle, with a simple structure and low cost, employing a magnetic field generating coil and pairs of magnetic field detection coils oriented oppositely to enhance signal reliability, and optionally incorporating a magnetic driven member and temperature sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional steering sensors are used, then steering torque and angle detection is achieved, but the structure becomes complex and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the magnetic field generating element and multiple magnetic field detection elements into a single integrated sensor assembly mounted on a common base plate. This merging of components achieves both torque and angle detection functions in one unified structure, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable steering parameter detection
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: detecting both steering torque and steering angle using a shared magnetic field generating element and multiple detection elements. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate sensors, reducing structural complexity while ensuring reliable detection for multiple vehicle functions
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used for torque and angle detection, then detection accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges torque detection and angle detection into a single sensor assembly where multiple magnetic field detection elements share a common magnetic field generating element and base plate. This combination achieves accurate detection of both parameters while reducing the total number of components compared to using separate sensors, thereby lowering manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly provides multi-functional detection capabilities for both torque and angle measurements using a unified structure. This approach eliminates the need for multiple independent sensor systems, reducing part counts and assembly complexity, which directly reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining high measurement precision
3Ease of manufacture
If integrated sensor design is used, then cost is reduced, but adaptability to different steering columns decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly is designed as a universal multi-functional unit that can detect both torque and angle parameters across different steering column configurations. The integrated design with shared components reduces cost while the flexible mounting arrangement on the base plate enables adaptation to various steering column types and geometries
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly incorporates adjustable and flexible mounting arrangements that allow adaptation to different steering column configurations. The base plate structure enables positioning adjustments to accommodate various steering column geometries, maintaining versatility while preserving the cost benefits of the integrated design
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 solution provides accurate and reliable detection of steering torque and angle with minimal detection lag, suitable for various vehicle functions like ESP and ADAS, and fault safety solutions, while being cost-effective and adaptable to different steering systems.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic field generating element, configured to generate a magnetic field, the magnetic field penetrating the steering column so as to magnetize a steel material
Implementation Method 2
detect a magnetic field change caused by a magnetoelastic effect of the magnetized steel material of the steering column when the steering column is subjected to torque stress
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor for at least detecting steering torque of a steel steering column includes a magnetic field generating element which is configured to generate a magnetic field. The magnetic field penetrates the steering column so as to magnetize a steel material thereof. The sensor also includes a magnetic field detection element which is configured to detect a magnetic field change caused by a magnetoelastic effect of the magnetized steel material of the steering column when the steering column is subjected to torque stress. An output signal of the magnetic field detection element characterizes steering torque. The sensor also includes a base plate bearing the magnetic field generating element and the magnetic field detection element. The base plate is spaced from and separate from the steel steering column. The magnetic field generating element and the magnetic field detection element are directly mounted on the base plate.