Steering Torque-Based Hands-Free Detection With Adaptive Thresholds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hands-free state determination systems in vehicles are prone to erroneous determinations due to output errors in the steering torque sensor, which can occur from factors like assembly errors or misalignment, leading to incorrect assumptions about the driver's grip on the steering wheel.
Innovation Solution
A hands-free state determination device that includes a torque imparting device, a steering torque sensor, and a control unit, which variably sets a predetermined range for determining the hands-free state based on steering torque detected by the sensor, accounting for potential output errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed reference value is used for hands-free state determination, then the determination process is simple, but erroneous determination occurs due to sensor output errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a fixed reference value to a dynamically adjustable reference value that adapts to actual sensor characteristics. The control unit determines an appropriate reference value based on detected steering torque during straight traveling, allowing the system to accommodate sensor output errors while maintaining determination accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the reference value parameter based on actual sensor behavior. Instead of using a predetermined fixed value, the system adjusts the reference value according to the steering torque detected during straight traveling conditions, thereby compensating for sensor errors and improving determination reliability.
2Reliability
If the reference value is adjusted to account for sensor errors, then determination accuracy improves, but the control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies self-service by enabling the control unit to automatically determine an appropriate reference value based on steering torque detection during straight traveling. This self-adjustment mechanism eliminates the need for manual calibration or complex external calibration equipment, achieving improved accuracy through autonomous system behavior.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the steering torque detected during straight traveling as input to adjust the reference value. This feedback loop allows the system to learn and adapt to its own sensor characteristics, automatically compensating for errors and improving determination accuracy without increasing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A hands-free state determination device including: a torque imparting device configured to apply control torque to a steering transmission system between a steering wheel and a steered wheel; a steering torque sensor provided in the steering transmission system between the steering wheel and the torque imparting device; and a control unit configured to determine that the driver is in a hands-free state in which the steering wheel is not held when the steering torque detected by the steering torque sensor is within a first predetermined range, wherein the control unit performs variable setting of the first predetermined range based on the steering torque detected by the steering torque sensor in a situation where it is determined that the torque is not input to the steering torque sensor.