Steering Clutch Engagement Detection via Torque Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steer-by-wire systems face issues with clutch engagement time variability, leading to unnatural steering feel and inhibited driver control due to incorrect clutch engagement determination, causing the steering wheel to be held in place excessively after clutch engagement.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle steering control apparatus that includes an operating torque detector and a clutch engagement determining section, which issues a clutch engagement command and determines clutch engagement based on an increase in operating torque, allowing smooth transition to EPS control mode after actual engagement, regardless of clutch engagement time variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed prescribed amount of time is used to hold the steering angle during clutch engagement, then the steering angle can be maintained constant during the estimated engagement period, but the steering angle remains held after the clutch actually engages, causing unnatural steering feel
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the operating torque at the steering wheel and uses this feedback to dynamically determine clutch engagement status. When the torque exceeds a threshold, the system identifies this as the actual engagement point and immediately transitions from holding the steering angle to allowing normal steering operation, thereby eliminating unnatural steering feel while maintaining stability during the engagement process
Solution Approach 2:
The control system transitions from a static time-based holding approach to a dynamic torque-based detection approach. The steering angle holding period is no longer fixed but is determined in real-time by monitoring torque changes, allowing the system to adapt to actual clutch engagement conditions and provide natural steering feedback to the driver
2Reliability
If the steering angle is held constant during the estimated clutch engagement time, then vehicle behavior can be prevented from becoming unstable, but the steering wheel becomes directly connected to steered wheels before the prescribed time elapses, causing the steering wheel to be held in place
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses real-time torque feedback to accurately detect when the clutch actually engages, regardless of the estimated engagement time. This feedback mechanism allows the system to maintain vehicle behavior stability by holding the steering angle only until actual engagement occurs, then immediately allowing normal steering operation, thereby eliminating time loss and unnatural steering feel
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares for clutch engagement by monitoring torque changes in advance. When the torque threshold indicating engagement is detected, the system has already prepared to transition from angle holding to normal steering mode, ensuring smooth and immediate transition without delays or unnatural steering feel
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle steering control apparatus includes a steering wheel to be operated by a driver, a steering mechanism for turning the front wheels in accordance with an operating torque of the steering wheel, and a clutch for mechanically connecting the steering wheel to the steering mechanism. A clutch engagement command issuing section is provided for issuing an engagement command to the clutch when the clutch is disengaged and a condition for engaging the clutch is satisfied. A clutch engagement determining section is provided for determining that the clutch is in an engaged state when an increase in torque is detected at the steering wheel after the engagement command has been issued to the clutch.