Steering Column Position Correction Using Overload Limit Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column adjustment systems face challenges in accurately adjusting the posture of the steering column to the driver's preference due to deviations in position detection, leading to potential inaccuracies and reduced adjustment ranges.
Innovation Solution
A steering column adjusting device and method that utilizes an actuator and detection unit to modify deviations in posture detection by storing overload positions and adjusting the steering column within a set allowable range defined by modified limit positions, ensuring high accuracy through a processor and memory system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the posture position is detected from operating value without modification, then the detection process is simple, but the detection precision deteriorates due to deviation accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by detecting the actuator's overload state and using this information to correct the operating value. When the actuator becomes overloaded at a movable limit position, the system detects this state and modifies the corresponding operating value to match the actual limit position, thereby correcting detection deviations without requiring additional sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the actuator's own overload response as a self-diagnostic signal to identify and correct detection errors. The actuator's natural mechanical limitation (overload at limit positions) is utilized as a reference point to calibrate the detection system, eliminating the need for external calibration devices or complex correction mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the movable range is defined by mechanical limit positions, then the structure is simple, but the adjustment range is reduced due to detection deviation
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the parameter representing the movable limit position by modifying the operating value when overload is detected. This allows the system to adapt the defined movable range to the actual mechanical limits, expanding the usable adjustment range while maintaining precise control within the corrected boundaries.
3Measurement precision
If the operating value is used directly for posture detection, then the response speed is fast, but the detection accuracy deteriorates due to deviation from actual position
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of the actuator's overload state during operation and uses this information to proactively correct the operating value before significant deviation accumulates. This allows the system to maintain accurate posture detection without requiring continuous complex calculations or additional measurement steps.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column adjusting device includes an actuator that drives a posture adjusting mechanism of a steering column, and a detection unit that detects a current posture position of a steering column, from an operating value indicating an operation amount of the actuator based on one of two movable limit positions of a posture adjusting mechanism, and stores an operating value indicating an overload position at which the actuator is overloaded. The detection unit modifies, when the operating value indicating a current overload position detected when the actuator is operated in one moving direction matches with the operating value indicating a previous overload position stored in a previous operation of the actuator in the one moving direction, the operating value such that the current overload position is the movable limit position in the one moving direction.