Steering Controller Motor-Driven Precision Farming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated vehicle steering systems for precision farming and other applications are limited by dynamic limitations of steering controllers, which restrict operating speeds and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A steering controller with a motor-driven system that includes a stator and rotor, an encoder disk for angular position sensing, and a control module that interfaces with a guidance module to precisely control vehicle steering, capable of high torque and efficient operation in harsh environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional steering controllers are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but operating speed and accuracy are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The steering controller is divided into distinct functional modules: a motor module (with stator and rotor) for torque generation, an encoder module (with encoder disk and angle encoder) for position sensing, and a control module for processing guidance commands. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently, enabling higher operating speeds while maintaining manageable overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical steering control mechanisms with an electromechanical system. The motor (electromagnetic actuator) substitutes for mechanical linkages, and the angle encoder (sensing device) replaces mechanical position indicators. This substitution enables more precise control and higher operating speeds without proportionally increasing mechanical complexity.
2Measurement precision
If high torque motor-driven steering is implemented, then steering accuracy at high speeds is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The angle encoder continuously monitors the angular position of the encoder disk and feeds this information back to the control module. The control module compares the actual position with the desired position (from guidance commands) and adjusts motor torque accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system achieves high steering accuracy while keeping the control algorithm relatively simple, as it only requires basic position comparison and correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module performs multiple functions: it processes guidance commands, interprets angle encoder feedback, calculates required motor torque, and controls motor operation. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional control module rather than separate dedicated components for each function, the system achieves high steering accuracy without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
3Productivity
If existing steering systems are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but productivity and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The steering system uses a dynamic motor-driven mechanism instead of static or mechanically-limited steering. The motor can rapidly adjust steering angle in response to guidance commands, enabling the vehicle to operate at higher speeds while maintaining precise steering control. The dynamic response capability of the electromechanical system directly supports increased operational speed and productivity.
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
Enables precise and efficient vehicle steering at higher speeds and accuracy, overcoming the limitations of existing systems by providing a robust and reliable control mechanism for agricultural and other applications.
Implementation Method 1
an encoder disk fixedly coupled to the hub; an angle encoder arranged to sense angular positions of the encoder disk
Implementation Method 2
a motor comprising a stator fixedly coupled to the housing and a rotor fixedly coupled to the hub
Data Source
AI summary
A steering controller can control steering of a vehicle and is suitable for precision farm controlling. The steering controller can rotate the steering shaft of the vehicle direct the vehicle on a desired path, for example, using a satellite positioning system. Components of the steering controller are environmental protected by a housing that has an opening extending between its front and rear surfaces. The opening is lined by a shaft. A hub located near the front of the opening can be coupled to the steering shaft of the vehicle. A motor has a stator fixed to the housing and a rotor fixed to the hub. When the housing is attached to a fixed location on the vehicle, the motor can rotate the steering shaft by rotating the hub with respect to the housing. A control module drives the motor based on commands from a guidance module.