Steering Column Control Module With Magnetic Position Sensing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current steering column control systems rely on mechanical switches that can be prone to wear and tear, and do not provide intuitive control over various vehicle functions, limiting user experience and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A steering column control module with a stalk assembly that includes magnets and sensors, allowing for precise control of vehicle functions through continuous position sensing, enabling intuitive operation and reducing mechanical wear by using Hall effect sensors to send signals to a controller for actuating vehicle functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical contact switches are used in the stalk assembly, then the control system is simple and easy to manufacture, but the switches are prone to wear and tear, reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact switches with magnetic sensors and magnets. The stalk assembly incorporates magnets that move with the stalk, while magnetic sensors mounted on the circuit board detect the magnetic field changes to determine stalk position. This eliminates mechanical contact wear and improves reliability without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the mechanical stalk movement and the electronic control system. Magnets attached to the stalk create magnetic fields that are detected by magnetic sensors, providing a non-contact signaling mechanism that avoids mechanical wear while maintaining system simplicity.
2Measurement precision
If mechanical contact switches are used, then the device structure is simple, but the control precision and user experience are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical contact switches with magnetic sensors that provide continuous position sensing. The magnetic sensors detect the position of magnets attached to the stalk assembly, enabling precise determination of stalk angle and position without the limitations of mechanical switch discrete positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from mechanical contact presence/absence to magnetic field strength and direction. By measuring magnetic field parameters, the system achieves continuous and precise position sensing, improving measurement precision while the modular sensor design keeps complexity manageable.
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
Enhances user experience by providing precise and reliable control over vehicle functions, reducing mechanical wear and improving reliability through continuous position sensing and electronic signal processing.
Implementation Method 1
A cable assembly extends into the stalk assembly and includes a plurality of portions. First and second sensors are provided on the plurality of portions of the cable assembly for continuously sensing the positions of the first and second magnets and sending signals indicating the positions of the magnets.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column control module includes a stalk assembly pivotably connected to a control module housing. A plurality of magnets is connected to and movable by the stalk assembly. A plurality of sensors senses the positions of the plurality of magnets and sends signals indicating the positions of the magnets. A controller receives the signals to control vehicle functions.