Steering Torque Monitoring via Virtual Copy Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining an additional torque in steering systems to generate a steering torque recommendation lack reliability and rapidity, potentially impairing the operation of the steering system.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that determine an additional torque by recording manual steering torque, using a support function to calculate a target support torque, and detecting malfunctions by comparing differences in target support torques calculated with and without additional torque, allowing for quick and reliable monitoring without impairing system operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional torque is determined using a support function with manual steering torque as input, then a steering torque recommendation is generated, but the reliability and rapidity of monitoring the additional torque determination is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the target support torque calculation by determining a virtual target support torque based solely on manual steering torque, without the additional torque. This virtual copy is then compared with the actual target support torque that includes additional torque, enabling monitoring without requiring separate physical sensors or complex additional hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a virtual target support torque as an intermediary element that mediates between the manual steering torque and the actual target support torque. This intermediary allows the monitoring system to compare the difference between calculated torques to detect malfunctions in the additional torque determination, avoiding direct measurement complexity.
2Reliability
If monitoring of additional torque is implemented using existing methods, then malfunction detection is possible, but the monitoring impairs the operation of the steering system and reduces system availability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical mechanical monitoring systems with a computational approach. Instead of using additional sensors, mechanical linkages, or physical measurement devices that would interfere with steering operation, the system uses software-based calculation and comparison of virtual versus actual target support torques to detect malfunctions.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring is performed periodically by cyclically determining the virtual target support torque and comparing it with the actual target support torque at defined intervals, rather than continuous monitoring that would constantly interfere with system operation. This periodic approach maintains system availability while ensuring reliable malfunction detection.
3Speed
If rapid monitoring of additional torque is achieved, then malfunction detection speed is improved, but haptic effects on the steering system increase
Solution Approach 1:
By creating a virtual copy of the target support torque calculation that excludes additional torque, the system can rapidly compare this virtual copy with the actual target support torque to detect malfunctions. This computational copying method enables fast monitoring without requiring physical measurement that would introduce haptic feedback or interference with the steering system.
Data Source
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AI summary
The method involves detecting a manual steering torque (HLM), and determining an additional torque (ZM), where a target-support torque (SUM) is determined by a support function in response to a sum of the manual steering torque and the additional torque. Another target-support torque is determined by the support function in response to the manual steering torque in an exclusive manner. A difference between the both target-support torques is determined. A malfunction is detected, if the difference is greater than a predetermined threshold value. An independent claim is included for a device for monitoring a determination of an additional torque.