Steering Column Position Sensing for Stowed-State Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column position-sensing technologies are complex and maintenance-intensive, prone to inaccurate measurements due to relative measurement methods, which can lead to incorrect positioning and potential safety issues in vehicle operation, especially in automated driving scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A position-sensing device for steering columns that incorporates a first sensor unit for relative positioning and a second sensor unit for absolute positioning, using a transmitter and receiver module to generate signals that correct sensor values and trigger appropriate airbag systems based on the steering column's state, ensuring accurate positioning and safety features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a relative measurement method is used for position sensing, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates leading to inaccurate positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The position-sensing device is segmented into two independent sensor units: a first sensor unit using relative measurement method and a second sensor unit using absolute measurement method. Each sensor unit operates independently to sense the steering column position, allowing the system to combine the simplicity of relative measurement with the accuracy of absolute measurement without requiring a single complex sensor system.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit receives signals from both sensor units and uses feedback mechanisms to compare and validate the position information. The system continuously monitors the steering column position through both measurement methods and uses the feedback to ensure accurate positioning, particularly in distinguishing between stowed and unstowed states.
2Device complexity
If a single sensor unit is used, then the device complexity is minimized, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential measurement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing function is segmented across two independent sensor units with different measurement principles. The first sensor unit provides continuous relative position data while the second sensor unit provides absolute position reference. This segmentation ensures that if one sensor unit fails or provides erroneous data, the other can compensate, thereby enhancing system reliability without requiring excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the measurement parameter approach by using two different sensing methods: relative measurement (change in position) and absolute measurement (fixed reference position). This parameter diversity allows the system to maintain high reliability by cross-validating measurements from different physical principles, reducing the impact of errors from any single sensor.
3Ease of operation
If the steering column is moved into the dashboard for autonomous driving, then the driver's space and comfort are improved, but the safety risk increases due to potential collision detection errors
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously receives position signals from both sensor units and uses feedback to determine the steering column state. The system compares the position data from both sensor units to accurately determine whether the steering column is in stowed or unstowed position, enabling safe autonomous driving operation while minimizing false safety risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary position verification by receiving and processing signals from both sensor units before confirming the steering column state. This preliminary action ensures that the steering column is properly positioned and locked in the stowed state before autonomous driving begins, preventing collision risks while maximizing driver space and comfort.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column for a motor vehicle may include an actuating unit in which a steering spindle is rotatably mounted and which is held in an adjustable manner by a supporting unit, an adjustment device for adjusting the actuating unit with respect to the supporting unit, and a position-sensing device that includes a first sensor unit for sensing the position of the actuating unit with respect to the supporting unit. The position-sensing device may also include a second sensor unit for sensing a state when the actuating unit is in a predetermined position relative to the supporting unit. One or both of the sensor units may be configured to operate in a contactless manner.