Steering Column Force Sensor Interposed Between Non-Rotating Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for detecting a driver's intention to return to manual driving mode in vehicles equipped with driving assistance or autonomous driving systems are complex and expensive, often requiring electrical connections to rotating components.
Innovation Solution
A steering column with force sensors interposed between non-rotating elements of the steering column and the vehicle chassis, allowing precise detection of forces exerted on the steering wheel and enabling the electronic control unit to trigger operations for resuming manual control based on predetermined criteria.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If force sensors are installed on rotating components with electrical connections, then driver intention can be detected, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the force sensor from the rotating component and relocates it to a stationary element. Specifically, the force sensor is mounted on a stationary support structure and measures forces through a force transmission element that connects to the rotating steering wheel, thereby eliminating the need for electrical connections on rotating parts while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a force transmission element as an intermediary between the rotating steering wheel and the stationary force sensor. This mediator transmits the mechanical forces from the rotating component to the stationary sensor, enabling accurate force measurement without requiring the sensor itself to rotate or have electrical connections on rotating parts
2Measurement precision
If force sensors are installed on rotating components with electrical connections, then driver intention can be detected, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the force sensor from the rotating component and relocates it to a stationary element. Specifically, the force sensor is mounted on a stationary support structure and measures forces through a force transmission element that connects to the rotating steering wheel, thereby eliminating the need for electrical connections on rotating parts while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simpler, more cost-effective force sensor mounting solutions on stationary elements rather than expensive rotary electrical connections. The force transmission element uses basic mechanical components that are easier and cheaper to manufacture and install, reducing overall system cost
3Measurement precision
If complex detection systems are used to measure driver force, then force detection is possible, but system simplicity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the force sensor from the rotating component and relocates it to a stationary element. Specifically, the force sensor is mounted on a stationary support structure and measures forces through a force transmission element that connects to the rotating steering wheel, thereby eliminating the need for electrical connections on rotating parts while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a force transmission element as an intermediary between the rotating steering wheel and the stationary force sensor. This mediator transmits the mechanical forces from the rotating component to the stationary sensor, enabling accurate force measurement without requiring the sensor itself to rotate or have electrical connections on rotating parts
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
This solution provides a simple and economical means to detect driver intentions, enabling precise force measurement and triggering of steering wheel movements to facilitate a smooth transition to manual driving mode, enhancing driver awareness and control.
Implementation Method 1
at least one force sensor that is interposed between a first non-rotating element of the steering column and a second non-rotating element belonging either to the steering column or to the chassis of the vehicle
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention proposes a steering column (10) comprising a support base intended to be mounted fixedly with respect to a vehicle chassis, a steering member (16) on which a vehicle steering wheel is mounted, the steering member (16) comprising a transmission shaft (20) mounted so as to rotate with respect to the support base about a longitudinal main axis (A1), characterized in that it has at least one force sensor (32) that is interposed between a first non-rotating element (34) of the steering column (10) and a second non-rotating element (36) belonging either to the steering column (10) or to the chassis of the vehicle.