Steering Universal Joint Torque Fluctuation Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steering systems with universal joints experience torque fluctuations, which can result in an uneven steering feel for drivers, and existing mechanical designs are limited in mitigating these fluctuations due to vehicle layout constraints.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that measures input and output steering angles, calculates angular velocity ratios, determines equivalent angles and phases to characterize torque fluctuations, and uses an electric motor to produce compensation torque signals to counteract these fluctuations, thereby improving steering feel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If universal joints are used to transmit rotational power across different angles, then power transmission capability is improved, but torque fluctuations occur causing uneven steering feel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical solutions with an electronic control system. Sensors detect the actual steering angle and torque, and an electronic controller calculates and applies compensation torque through a motor, substituting complex mechanical compensation mechanisms with an electronic feedback system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where sensors continuously monitor steering angle and torque, the controller processes this information to determine fluctuation characteristics, and compensation torque is applied based on real-time measurements, creating a closed-loop control system.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If mechanical design is used to suppress torque fluctuations, then some fluctuations are reduced, but the solution is limited by vehicle layout constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical suppression designs with an electronic compensation system that can adapt to various vehicle layouts. The electronic controller can calculate and compensate for torque fluctuations regardless of the specific mechanical configuration, providing greater design flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from fixed mechanical design parameters to variable electronic control parameters. The system can dynamically adjust compensation torque based on real-time operating conditions, allowing adaptation to different vehicle layouts and operating scenarios.
3Measurement precision
If complex calculations are used to characterize torque fluctuation, then accuracy is improved, but computing resources and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simplified approach that focuses on the essential characteristics of torque fluctuation. Rather than performing exhaustive complex calculations, the system uses a simplified transfer function that captures the dominant behavior, achieving sufficient accuracy with reduced computational effort.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for compensating torque fluctuation in a steering column having at least one universal joint includes: measuring an input steering angle and an output angle of the steering column; determining a steering angular velocity value based on the input steering angle; determining a TAS angular velocity value based on the output angle; determining an angular velocity ratio signal based on a ratio of the steering angular velocity value and the TAS angular velocity value; determining, across a predetermined ranges of values of the input steering angle, a maximum value of the angular velocity ratio signal; determining, based on the maximum value of the angular velocity ratio signal, an equivalent angle and an equivalent phase to characterize the torque fluctuation; determining a compensation torque signal based on the equivalent angle and the equivalent phase; and producing, by an electric motor, a compensation torque based on the compensation torque signal.