Steering Rack Sensing Layout for Accurate On-Center Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steering systems for vehicles, particularly those with steer-by-wire systems, face challenges in assemblability of parts, measurement accuracy, and efficiency due to complex system housings and excessive specifications.
Innovation Solution
A steering apparatus for a vehicle that includes a rack housing, a rack bar, a housing with a first sensing section to measure rack bar movement, and a second sensing section to accurately sense the rack bar's position within the on-center section, improving assemblability and measurement accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional SBW system uses a fixed worm shaft gear section structure with separate waterproof cover and sensor, then the system can achieve basic sensing function, but the system housing shape becomes complicated and assemblability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the housing and the sensor into a single integrated unit. The sensor is mounted directly on the housing, eliminating the need for separate waterproof covers and complex assembly structures. This merging of components simplifies the overall system housing shape while maintaining the sensing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides structural support, protects internal components, and directly mounts the sensor. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated sensor housings or waterproof covers, simplifying the overall structure.
2Measurement precision
If a conventional SBW system applies excessive specification to achieve SAS performance, then measurement accuracy is ensured, but manufacturing efficiency decreases and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different sensing approaches for different operational ranges: a magnet sensor is used for detecting the neutral position (on-center section) where high precision is critical, while other ranges use simpler detection methods. This local quality approach ensures SAS performance where needed without excessive specification throughout the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the sensing parameter by using a magnet and magnet sensor instead of more complex mechanical or optical sensing systems. This parameter change maintains measurement precision for SAS performance while significantly improving manufacturability and reducing costs.
3Reliability
If a conventional SBW system uses a fixed worm shaft gear section structure, then basic sensing is achieved, but assemblability of parts becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor and housing are merged into a single component or closely integrated unit that is installed as one assembly. This eliminates multiple separate parts that would need to be assembled, significantly improving assemblability while maintaining the sensing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing system is segmented into modular components: the magnet is mounted on the rack bar, the magnet sensor is mounted on the housing, and these can be installed independently. This segmentation allows for easier assembly and maintenance while ensuring reliable sensing function.
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
The proposed solution enables accurate sensing of steering states and forward movement alignment of driving wheels, improving assemblability and reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining high measurement accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensing section (400) mounted on the housing (300) and configured to sense an amount of movement of the rack bar (200) while being rotated in mesh with the rack bar (200)
Implementation Method 2
a second sensing section (500) mounted on the rack housing (100) and configured to sense the amount of movement of the rack bar (200) within an on-center section
Data Source
AI summary
A steering apparatus for a vehicle includes: a rack housing; a rack bar inserted into an inner portion of the rack housing and moving linearly in a lengthwise direction of the rack housing; a housing mounted on the rack housing; a first sensing section mounted on the housing to sense an amount of movement of the rack bar while being rotated in mesh with the rack bar as the rack bar moves linearly on the rack housing; and a second sensing section mounted on the rack housing to sense the amount of movement of the rack bar within an on-center section.