Steer-by-Wire Torque Measurement Using Motion Sensor and Spring Stiffness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steer-by-wire steering systems face challenges in accurately measuring torque for force-feedback actuators, leading to inefficient designs that occupy excessive installation space, which cannot be reconciled with a compact and advantageous configuration.
Innovation Solution
A torque measurement apparatus comprising a housing element, a control unit, a drive apparatus, and a transmission apparatus with a reset-reversible adjusting device, such as spring elements, and a motion sensor to detect motion and calculate torque using mechanical properties and motion signals, enabling a compact and reliable measurement system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional torque measurement approaches are used in force-feedback actuators, then torque measurement is achieved, but the installation space becomes excessively large and structural limits are reached
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the torque measurement function with the existing transmission apparatus components. The motion sensor detects motion of the transmission apparatus itself, and the control unit calculates torque using the mechanical properties of the transmission apparatus in combination with the motion signal, eliminating the need for separate torque measurement components.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission apparatus serves multiple functions: it transmits mechanical motion and simultaneously provides the basis for torque measurement through its mechanical properties and motion detection. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system volume by eliminating dedicated torque measurement hardware.
2Reliability
If existing torque measurement systems are implemented, then steering torque can be measured, but the design reaches structural limits and cannot achieve compact configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical torque measurement systems with a sensor-based detection method. The motion sensor detects motion of the transmission apparatus, and the control unit calculates torque using the mechanical properties and motion signals, substituting direct mechanical measurement with a more compact sensor-based approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that processes the motion signal from the motion sensor and combines it with the mechanical properties of the transmission apparatus to calculate torque. This intermediary approach allows indirect torque measurement without requiring direct mechanical torque sensors.
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 apparatus allows for accurate and space-efficient torque measurement in force-feedback actuators for steer-by-wire steering systems, applicable to both passenger cars and commercial vehicles, ensuring reliable operation and adaptable design.
Implementation Method 1
at least one reset-reversible adjusting device having at least one mechanical property that changes as said transmission apparatus moves
Implementation Method 2
at least one reset-reversible adjusting device coupling said transmission apparatus to said housing element
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus is provided for measuring a torque in a force-feedback actuator for a steer-by-wire steering system has a housing element, a control unit, a drive apparatus, and a transmission apparatus to be coupled to a steering device. At least one motion sensor detects a motion of the transmission apparatus relative to the housing element and provide a motion signal resulting from the motion to the control unit. The transmission apparatus is coupled to the housing element by way of at least one reset-reversible adjusting device which has at least one mechanical property. A torque of the transmission apparatus, and thus of a connectable steering device, may be ascertained by the control unit using the at least one mechanical property, which has at least one changing state value during the movement of the transmission apparatus, in combination with the motion signal.