Power steering direction sensor
US4366768A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 7, 1982 |
| Grant date | Jan 4, 1983 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 7, 2002 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S310/80
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A plastic material, preferably polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) film, made highly piezoelectric by known methods, is placed in a sensor unit structure wherein pressure is exerted against the piezoelectric film by means of rotation of the steering wheel of the boat or vehicle to thereby cause the piezoelectric film to generate electric signals which are used in controlling the rpm of a low-inertia, instantaneously reversible steering power assist motor. The rpm of the motor is substantially proportional to the input electric signals, which, in turn, are determined by, and responsive to, the degrees of rotation and speed of rotation of the steering wheel. The direction of rotation of the steering wheel determines the direction of steering assist, i.e., to the left or right. Available torque of the motor however is substantially inversely proportional to rpm of the engine propelling the boat or vehicle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.