Hydraulic Steering Pressure Sensor Autotrim Algorithm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hydraulic steering systems require matching pressure sensor channels for calibration, which increases the time and complexity of system assembly and calibration.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic steering system with an estimation module that calculates a trim value from backpressure measurements on a valve assembly, allowing for pressure compensation without matching pressure channels, using a compensation module to adjust subsequent pressure measurements based on the trim value.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pressure sensor channels are matched during assembly or manufacture, then pressure measurement accuracy is improved, but calibration time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing autotrim calibration during the manufacturing process rather than requiring separate post-assembly calibration. The calibration algorithm automatically determines trim values for each pressure sensor channel during initial system setup, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual matching procedures later. This preliminary calibration establishes accurate pressure measurements before the system enters service.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through an automatic calibration algorithm that performs the trimming operation without requiring manual intervention or expert adjustment. The system autonomously measures pressure differential values, calculates appropriate trim values, and applies compensation to each sensor channel independently. This self-calibrating capability eliminates the need for technician involvement in the complex process of matching pressure channels.
2Measurement precision
If pressure sensor channels are matched during assembly or manufacture, then pressure measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual process of pressure channel matching with an electronic/software-based autotrim calibration algorithm. Instead of requiring physical adjustment of sensor channels or mechanical matching procedures, the system uses computational methods to automatically determine and apply trim values. This substitution of electronic/software solutions for mechanical procedures reduces system complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the trim values for each pressure sensor channel based on measured differential pressure values. The calibration algorithm modifies the output parameters of the pressure sensors through software-based compensation rather than requiring permanent physical changes to the hardware. This flexible parameter adjustment approach simplifies the system compared to fixed mechanical matching arrangements.
Data Source
AI summary
A hydraulic steering system estimates a trim value from at least a backpressure sensed on a valve assembly in a steering gear. The system further applies the trim value to the pressure measurements of the valve assembly in the steering gear.