Steering Controller Motor-Driven Precision Farming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated vehicle steering systems have limitations in operating speed due to dynamic constraints of steering controllers, which restrict the precision and efficiency of agricultural and other vehicle operations.
Innovation Solution
A steering controller with a motor-driven mechanism, including a stator and rotor, an encoder disk, and a control module that uses angular position information to drive the motor based on commands from a guidance module, allowing for precise control of vehicle steering and overcoming speed limitations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional steering controllers are used, then the system is simple and reliable, but the operating speed is limited and precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical steering control systems with an electro-mechanical system that uses a motor (electromagnetic actuator) to drive the steering mechanism. This substitution enables higher operating speeds and more precise control while maintaining system reliability through electronic control modules that process guidance signals and adjust steering accordingly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic parameter adjustment in the steering controller, including variable torque control and adaptive response characteristics. The control module modifies operational parameters based on real-time feedback from encoders and guidance system inputs, allowing the system to optimize performance across different operating conditions and speeds.
2Productivity
If high-speed steering control is implemented, then productivity increases, but torque control and precision become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates encoder devices that provide real-time feedback on steering position and motor shaft angle to the control module. This feedback loop enables the system to maintain precise control at high speeds by continuously monitoring actual position and comparing it with commanded position, making corrective adjustments as needed to maintain accuracy throughout the steering range.
3Speed
If a motor-driven steering mechanism is used, then speed and precision improve, but torque limitations may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic torque control strategy where the control module adjusts motor torque output based on real-time operational requirements. The system varies torque levels according to steering angle, speed commands, and load conditions, enabling the motor to deliver high torque when needed (during low-speed maneuvers or high-load conditions) while maintaining high-speed response capability during normal operation.
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 high-speed and precise steering control, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of vehicle navigation in agricultural and other applications, such as marine vessels, by providing high torque and rapid adjustments while being resistant to environmental factors.
Implementation Method 1
a motor comprising a stator fixedly coupled to the housing and a rotor fixedly coupled to the hub
Implementation Method 2
an angle encoder arranged to sense angular positions of the encoder disk
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.