Steering Control Calibration via Sensor Signal Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Calibrating steering and throttle sensors in vehicles like riding lawn mowers is challenging due to variations in sensor accuracy, leading to non-uniform responses across different vehicles and unpredictable performance during repairs.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control system that includes a steering control module capable of recording and comparing sensor signal values to determine the current position of the steering control, allowing for accurate calibration and consistent performance across vehicles, even with different sensor types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional sensor calibration methods are used during manufacturing, then sensor accuracy can be improved, but the calibration process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calibration actions by recording sensor signal values at extreme positions (full left, full right, center) during manufacturing. These pre-recorded values are stored in memory and used later to determine current steering positions through comparison, eliminating the need for time-consuming real-time calibration adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module automatically performs calibration by comparing current sensor signals against pre-stored reference values from extreme positions. The system self-calibrates without requiring external calibration equipment or manual adjustment, reducing both time and complexity while maintaining accuracy.
2Ease of repair
If sensors are replaced during field repairs, then vehicle maintenance can be restored, but the new sensors may provide different readings leading to unpredictable vehicle response
Solution Approach 1:
When a sensor is replaced, the system changes the parameter reference values by recording new extreme position signals from the replacement sensor. These new reference values are stored in memory, allowing the system to adapt to the new sensor's characteristics while maintaining consistent and predictable vehicle response through the same comparison-based position determination method.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different sensor types are used across vehicles, then manufacturing flexibility and adaptability are improved, but sensor accuracy variations lead to non-uniform response across different vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The control module implements a universal calibration approach that works with any sensor type by recording extreme position signals and storing them as reference values. This multi-functional method allows the same system to accommodate different sensor configurations across vehicles while ensuring uniform response characteristics through signal comparison against vehicle-specific reference values.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one aspect, a vehicle control system. The control system includes a steering control coupled to at least one steerable wheel, the steering control having a first position, a second position and a plurality of positions therebetween. The control system also includes a steering sensor coupled to the steering control and configured to generate steering sensor signals based upon the position of the steering control. The control system also includes a control module coupled to the steering sensor, the control module configured to (i) record a first steering sensor signal value when the steering control is in the first position; (ii) record a second steering sensor signal value when the steering control is in the second position; and (iii) determine a current position of the steering control by comparing the first and second steering sensor signal values with a current steering sensor signal value.