Steering Reaction Force Backup Without Dual ECUs
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electric power steering systems require duplication of electronic control units (ECUs) to ensure stable operation in case of ECU failure, which increases costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A steering device with a single ECU that includes an auxiliary reaction force module capable of providing a steering reaction force to the steering shaft or motor shaft when the ECU fails, using an electromagnet, yoke, and spring mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two ECUs are provided to ensure stable operation in case of ECU failure, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by providing a backup mechanism (auxiliary reaction force module) that is pre-configured to activate when the primary ECU fails. This module includes a reaction force motor and electromagnetic coupling mechanism that can provide steering assistance without requiring a second full ECU, thus maintaining reliability while reducing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the essential fail-safe function from a second ECU and implements it through a simplified auxiliary reaction force module. Instead of duplicating the entire ECU system, only the critical reaction force provision capability is extracted and implemented through a dedicated motor and electromagnetic coupling mechanism.
2Reliability
If two ECUs are provided to ensure stable operation in case of ECU failure, then reliability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential fail-safe function from a second ECU and implements it through a simplified auxiliary reaction force module. Instead of duplicating the entire ECU system, only the critical reaction force provision capability is extracted and implemented through a dedicated motor and electromagnetic coupling mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a cost-effective approach by replacing an expensive duplicate ECU with a simpler auxiliary reaction force module that uses a motor and electromagnetic coupling mechanism. This module is designed to be activated only in failure scenarios, providing reliable backup functionality at lower cost.
3Reliability
If connection and communication between two ECUs and other components is established, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential fail-safe function from a second ECU and implements it through a simplified auxiliary reaction force module. Instead of duplicating the entire ECU system, only the critical reaction force provision capability is extracted and implemented through a dedicated motor and electromagnetic coupling mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (electromagnetic coupling module) that simplifies the interaction between the primary ECU and the backup reaction force system. The electromagnetic coupling acts as a mediator that can be activated without requiring complex communication protocols between multiple ECUs.
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 solution reduces costs by eliminating the need for two ECUs, while maintaining driving stability by providing a steering reaction force even when the ECU fails, within a safe and predetermined range.
Implementation Method 1
an auxiliary reaction force module providing a reaction force to a steering shaft or a motor shaft as no current is applied by the electronic control unit when the electronic control unit abnormally operates
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a steering apparatus and a steering control method. A steering apparatus of the present disclosure comprises: a sensor which measures the steering angle on the basis of the torque of a steering wheel; a steering control module including one electronic control unit that controls a reaction force motor by using information on the steering angle measured by the sensor; and an auxiliary reaction force module which provides a reaction force to a steering shaft or a motor shaft by not applying a current from the electronic control unit during an abnormal operation of the electronic control unit.