Steering Torque Control for Lean-Angle Vehicle Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle configurations that lean to improve stability during turns can experience delayed steering response and driver interference due to inertial forces from high angular velocities, particularly in three-wheeled or four-wheeled single-seater vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle equipped with an inclination angle detection system and a torque applying mechanism that adjusts the steering angle and operation speed of the steered wheels based on the vehicle's inclination angular velocity or acceleration, using elastic members and dampers to apply steering torque in synchronization with the vehicle's lean, ensuring timely steering response and reducing driver interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the vehicle body is leaned to improve stability during turning, then the stability is improved, but the steering angle of the steered wheel is delayed in following the lean, resulting in deterioration in turning responsiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The torque applying part applies steering torque to the steered wheel in advance based on detected inclination angular velocity or acceleration, before the steering angle naturally follows the lean. This preliminary action ensures the steered wheel reaches the appropriate steering angle promptly, improving turning responsiveness while maintaining stability through coordinated leaning.
2Speed
If the lean speed of the vehicle body is increased to improve turning performance, then the turning performance is improved, but inertial force acts on the driver, interfering with driving operation
Solution Approach 1:
The torque applying part changes the steering torque parameters based on the inclination angular velocity or acceleration. By adjusting the steering torque in response to lean speed, the system optimizes turning performance while managing inertial forces acting on the driver, ensuring controllable and comfortable high-speed turning operation.
3Speed
If a torque applying part is added to apply steering torque based on inclination angular velocity, then turning responsiveness is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torque applying part is designed to serve multiple functions: it applies steering torque based on inclination angular velocity to improve responsiveness, and also adjusts torque based on inclination angular acceleration to manage inertial forces. This multi-functionality achieves improved turning performance without proportionally increasing device complexity.
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 enhances turning responsiveness by ensuring the steered wheels follow the vehicle's lean promptly and mitigates inertial forces acting on the driver, thereby improving the overall driving experience and stability.
Implementation Method 1
the torque applying part includes an elastic member that expands/contracts in accordance with inclination of the vehicle body
Implementation Method 2
The torque applying part includes a damper having one end connected to the tie rod through a damper link and the other end connected to the vehicle body
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle small in width and capable of ensuring both driving stability and drivability includes: a vehicle body with two or more wheels including steered wheels (right front wheel, left front wheel) for steering; an inclination angle detection part that detects the inclination angle of the vehicle body about a roll axis thereof; and a torque applying part (turning mechanism) that applies a steering torque to the steered wheels in accordance with an inclination angular velocity or an inclination angular acceleration of the vehicle body calculated from the inclination angle.