Target Magnet Assembly for Steering Gear Torque Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional torque sensor assemblies in steering gears require the entire steering gear to be disassembled for maintenance, making repairs cumbersome and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A three-piece torque sensor assembly comprising a stator subassembly, a magnet subassembly, and a sensor module, where the sensor module can be assembled and serviced independently, using a target magnet assembly with an index hub and mount to secure the magnet, allowing for secure positioning and reduced tolerance stack-up.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the torque sensor assembly is integrated into the steering gear as a single unit, then the structural integrity and alignment precision are improved, but the ease of repair and maintenance deteriorates as the entire steering gear must be disassembled
Solution Approach 1:
The torque sensor assembly is divided into three separate subassemblies: a stator subassembly, a magnet subassembly, and a sensor module. Each subassembly can be independently serviced and replaced without disassembling the entire steering gear, resolving the contradiction between maintaining alignment precision and facilitating ease of repair.
2Manufacturing precision
If the sensor module is integrated with the stator and magnet subassemblies, then the alignment precision is improved, but the ease of operation for independent servicing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is designed as a separate subassembly that can be independently installed and serviced. The sensor module locator ensures proper alignment when installing the sensor module onto the stator subassembly, maintaining alignment precision while enabling independent operation and servicing.
3Device complexity
If a traditional integrated torque sensor assembly is used, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the loss of time for maintenance increases as the entire steering gear must be disassembled
Solution Approach 1:
The torque sensor assembly is segmented into three independent subassemblies that can be quickly swapped out without disassembling the steering gear. This reduces maintenance time significantly while the modular design keeps the overall device complexity manageable through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module locator is pre-configured with positioning features that automatically align the sensor module with the stator subassembly during installation. This preliminary positioning action eliminates the need for time-consuming alignment procedures during maintenance, reducing overall maintenance time.
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 independent servicing of the sensor module without disassembling the steering gear, reducing maintenance time and complexity while maintaining precise alignment and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The target magnet assembly is used to provide a target magnet for a sensor capable of detecting a magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
A target magnet assembly configured to be secured to a rotating shaft of a steering gear assembly. The target magnet assembly includes an index hub with a mount and a magnet secured by the mount. The mount includes a tab with a protrusion extending from the tab, a finger, and a stop. The magnet includes an axial retention groove receiving the finger, a top surface abutting the stop, and a radial retention groove receiving the protrusion.