Steering Wheel Angle Sensing With Force Feedback Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing angle sensing technologies for steering wheels are limited in detecting rotation ranges beyond a maximum measurable range, leading to uncertainties and inaccuracies in determining actual rotation angles.
Innovation Solution
An angle sensing device that incorporates multiple angle sensors and a controller to determine actual rotation angles by combining Vernier algorithms with force sensors, such as torque and current sensors, to validate and correct rotation angles using perturbation control and force feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If two angle elements are used with Vernier algorithm to extend rotation range, then measurement range is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates at ranges beyond maximum measurable range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using force sensor information to validate and correct rotation angle measurements. When the determined rotation angle falls within a second reference angle section (beyond maximum measurable range), the controller uses force feedback during steering motor operation to identify the actual rotation angle, thereby correcting potential measurement errors and maintaining precision across extended rotation ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces force sensor information as an intermediary to bridge the gap between angle sensor measurements and actual rotation angles. The force sensor acts as a mediator that provides additional validation data, allowing the system to accurately determine rotation angles beyond the angle sensor's maximum measurable range by comparing force feedback characteristics against reference values.
2Device complexity
If angle sensor output range is used to determine maximum rotation range, then device complexity is reduced, but detection capability deteriorates for wider rotation ranges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by having the force sensor serve dual purposes: monitoring steering force during normal operation and validating/correcting rotation angle measurements when angles exceed the angle sensor's maximum measurable range. This allows the system to maintain detection capability for wide rotation ranges without adding dedicated measurement devices, thereby avoiding increased complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from relying solely on angle sensor output to incorporating force sensor characteristics. By monitoring changes in steering force during motor operation and comparing against reference force patterns, the system can determine actual rotation angles beyond the original angle sensor range, effectively expanding detection capability through parameter transformation.
Data Source
AI summary
An angle sensing device may include one or more angle sensors, an current sensor, and a controller is configured to determine a rotation angle of the steering wheel on the basis of an output signal from the one or more angle sensors in response to turning-on of the vehicle, determine the determined rotation angle as a final rotation angle of the steering wheel when the determined rotation angle is included in a first reference angle section among a plurality of reference angle sections.