Steering Wheel Contact Detection via Torque Signal Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting driver contact with the steering wheel in vehicles are costly and prone to interference from road noise and other factors, making them undesirable.
Innovation Solution
A method using a test signal transmitted to the power-assisted steering system to apply torque to the steering wheel, with a torque sensor measuring the response, and a manager employing spectral or statistical filtering to determine if the driver is in contact, utilizing existing vehicle components like the anti-lock braking system and power steering control modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dedicated sensors are used to determine driver contact with the steering wheel, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The torque sensor, originally designed for steering assistance functions, is repurposed to detect driver contact by analyzing torque characteristics. This multi-functional use eliminates dedicated sensors while maintaining detection capability through the existing torque measurement infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The steering system's own torque measurements serve the dual purpose of providing steering assistance and detecting driver contact. The system uses its inherent operational data (torque signals) to determine contact status, eliminating the need for separate detection hardware
2Reliability
If traditional contact detection methods are used, then driver contact can be detected, but reliability deteriorates due to interference from road noise and other factors
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies controlled vibrations or torque variations to the steering wheel and analyzes the driver's contact response. By using vibrational signatures and torque oscillations, the system can distinguish genuine contact from noise, as actual contact produces characteristic vibrational patterns that differ from road-induced disturbances
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors torque signals and uses feedback loops to distinguish genuine driver contact from noise. By analyzing the dynamic response and comparing it against expected contact patterns, the system can filter out road noise and other interference, improving detection reliability through adaptive signal processing
3Device complexity
If existing vehicle components are used for detection, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system analyzes multiple torque parameters (magnitude, frequency, phase, temporal patterns) to compensate for using existing components. By examining changes in torque characteristics over time and under different operating conditions, the system extracts precise contact information from the multi-functional torque sensor data
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
This approach reduces costs and interference, providing reliable real-time detection of driver contact with the steering wheel, ensuring accurate activation of steering assistance systems without disrupting vehicle operation.
Implementation Method 1
A torque sensor may then receive measurements signals indicative of steering wheel torque
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with various exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure describes methods and systems for detecting steering wheel contact by a user. A test signal may be transmitted to a power assisted steering system of a vehicle, where the test signal may apply torque to the steering wheel of the vehicle. A torque sensor may then receive measurements signals indicative of steering wheel torque. The torque indicated by the measurement signals may be compared to an expected torque. Based on the comparison, it may be determined whether the user is in contact with the steering wheel.