Steering Shaft Tilt Angle Detection via Torque Variation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric power steering systems (EPS) cannot detect the tilt angle of a steering shaft, which is essential for driver comfort and safety, especially during vehicle collisions.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that detect torque variation in a vehicle's steering shaft to calculate the tilt angle by matching joint and plane angles stored in a database, allowing for real-time adjustment of the driver seat based on the driver's body type and sitting height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional torque detection device is used to detect torque applied to the steering shaft, then torque detection is achieved, but the tilt angle of the steering shaft cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The torque detection device is enhanced to perform dual functions: detecting both torque applied to the steering shaft and the tilt angle of the steering shaft. The control unit processes torque detection values combined with steering angle information to derive tilt angle data, allowing a single device to provide multiple measurement capabilities without requiring separate sensing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that processes torque detection values and steering angle information to calculate tilt angle. By using the relationship between torque, steering angle, and tilt angle, the system derives tilt angle information that is not directly measured but can be inferred through computational processing of available sensor data.
2Reliability
If the steering shaft tilt angle is not detected, then the system remains simple, but driver comfort and safety during vehicle collisions cannot be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The existing torque detection device is made multi-functional by enabling it to derive both torque and tilt angle information through the control unit's processing capabilities. This approach enhances safety functionality without adding separate detection hardware, maintaining system simplicity while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit continuously processes torque detection values and steering angle information to provide real-time tilt angle feedback. This feedback mechanism enables the system to monitor steering shaft orientation dynamically, allowing for real-time adjustments to maintain driver comfort and safety without requiring complex predetermined positioning systems.
3Measurement precision
If torque variation is detected to calculate tilt angle, then tilt angle recognition is achieved, but additional calculation and matching processes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves as an intermediary that manages the calculation process by combining torque detection values with steering angle information from existing sensors. This approach distributes the computational burden across available system components rather than requiring a single complex calculation module, simplifying the overall architecture while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calculations by pre-establishing the relationship between torque, steering angle, and tilt angle. The control unit uses stored steering angle information in combination with real-time torque detection to derive tilt angle, avoiding the need for complex real-time matching processes and reducing computational complexity.
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
Enables the recognition of the tilt angle and adjusts the driver seat for improved comfort and safety by informing the driver of optimal seating through sound or display, enhancing steering convenience and safety during vehicle operations.
Implementation Method 1
a torque detection unit configured to detect a torque variation according to a change in tilt angle of the steering shaft
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a system for recognizing a tilt angle through detection of torque variation in a vehicle. The system includes a steering unit including a steering wheel steered by a driver and a steering shaft connected to the steering wheel, a torque detection unit configured to detect a torque variation according to a change in tilt angle of the steering shaft, and a control unit configured to calculate a torque variation using pre-stored data for a joint angle of the steering shaft and a plane angle of the steering shaft according to the change in tilt angle of the steering shaft, and to derive data for a tilt angle of the steering shaft by matching the calculated torque variation with the torque variation detected by the torque detection unit.