Steering System Load Compensation Through Inertia-Reducing Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering systems face high mechanical loads due to external forces, leading to increased weight, cost, and reduced efficiency, which are addressed by determining and compensating these loads using an actuator unit controlled by a computing unit.
Innovation Solution
An actuator unit, controlled by a computing unit, compensates for mechanical loads in the steering system by producing a compensation torque or force to counteract inertia effects, reducing loads on the steering system components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If mechanically oversized components are used to increase load capacity, then the steering system can handle high loads, but the weight of the steering system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator unit generates a counteracting force that opposes the external disturbance force acting on the steering system. This active counterweight approach allows the use of lighter mechanical components since the load compensation is achieved through active force generation rather than passive mechanical oversizing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces passive mechanical load-bearing structures with an active electromechanical actuator system. The actuator unit, controlled by the computing unit, substitutes for the need for mechanically oversized components by actively generating compensating forces to handle high loads.
2Strength
If mechanically oversized components are used to increase load capacity, then the steering system can handle high loads, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive mechanically oversized components with a more cost-effective electromechanical actuator system. The actuator unit, controlled by the computing unit, provides the necessary load capacity through active force generation rather than requiring costly mechanical oversizing.
3Strength
If the steering system is designed with high load capacity, then it can withstand external forces, but the efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic load compensation system where the actuator unit actively adjusts the counteracting force based on real-time disturbance conditions. The computing unit processes sensor data and dynamically controls the actuator, allowing the system to maintain high load capacity only when needed rather than continuously operating at maximum capacity, thus improving efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operational parameters by adjusting the actuator force output based on the magnitude and direction of external disturbances. This parameter adaptation allows the steering system to operate efficiently under normal conditions while maintaining high load capacity when disturbances occur.
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
This approach enhances efficiency, reduces weight, and increases the fatigue strength and service life of the steering system by minimizing inertia and mechanical resistance.
Implementation Method 1
an inertia effect of the steering system correlating with the external application of force is reduced
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a method for reducing loads in a steering system in particular during an operation in a vehicle, wherein a load caused by an external application of force on the steering system is determined and at least partially compensated in at least one operating state by controlling an actuator unit, and wherein the actuator unit is controlled in the operating state in such a way that an inertia effect of the steering system correlating with the external application of force is reduced.