Electromechanical Steering Energy Recovery Without Electrical Overvoltage
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Solution Overview
Problem
The generation of electrical currents by electric motors in a steering system can damage electronic components due to unsuitable vehicle electrical systems, particularly in hybrid or electric vehicles, and existing solutions like switching off consumers to prevent overvoltage are not optimal.
Innovation Solution
An electromechanical steering system with two actuators and motors that can operate in motor or generator modes, where generated currents are converted by one motor into energy by the other, using vector control to maintain torque and avoid system load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the first electric motor operates in generator mode to recover energy, then energy efficiency is improved, but generated currents can damage electronic components due to unsuitable vehicle electrical systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful generated currents from the first electric motor (which could damage electronic components) into a beneficial energy source by having the second electric motor absorb and convert them into mechanical energy, thus transforming a potential harm into a useful function
Solution Approach 2:
The second electric motor acts as an intermediary between the first electric motor and the vehicle's electrical system, absorbing generated currents and converting them to mechanical energy, thereby protecting the electrical system from damage while enabling energy recovery
2Adaptability or versatility
If a DC/DC converter is inserted to handle generated currents in hybrid or electric vehicles, then electrical system compatibility is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electromechanical steering system serves itself by using its own second electric motor to absorb and convert generated currents from the first electric motor, eliminating the need for external DC/DC converters or other specialized electrical system components
Solution Approach 2:
The second electric motor performs multiple functions: it provides steering assistance torque when needed and simultaneously absorbs generated currents from the first motor, making the system adaptable to different vehicle types without requiring additional components
3Loss of energy
If generated currents are absorbed by the vehicle battery, then energy recovery is improved, but overvoltage can occur in the electrical system
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of allowing generated currents to cause overvoltage when returned to the electrical system, the patent converts them into mechanical energy through the second electric motor, transforming a potentially harmful overvoltage condition into useful steering assistance torque
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
Prevents damage to electronic components and maintains steering feel by converting generator-generated currents without affecting the vehicle's electrical system, enhancing system applicability across various vehicle models.
Implementation Method 1
current generated in generator mode by the first electric motor being converted into energy by the second electric motor
Implementation Method 2
the first electric motor operates in either motor or generator mode depending on the driving situation, with current generated in generator mode by the first electric motor
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The present invention relates to an electromechanical steering system (1) comprising a first actuator (2) with a first electric motor (21) and a first control unit (22) and a second actuator (3) with a second electric motor (31) and a second control unit (32), wherein the first electric motor (21) can be operated in motor mode or generator mode depending on the driving situation, wherein the first actuator (2) and the second actuator (3) are communicatively connected to each other, and the second control unit (32) is configured to control the second electric motor (32) in generator mode of the first electric motor (21) such that a current (i_G21) generated in generator mode of the first electric motor (21) is converted into energy by the second electric motor (32), in particular by influencing an Id current for the second electric motor (31) specified by means of vector control.Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for operating such a steering system (1) in a motor vehicle, wherein a current (i_G21) generated in a generator operation of the first electric motor (21) is energetically converted by the second electric motor (31).