Patent · US Expired

Bootstrap power steering systems

US5755097A · kind A · utility

18Cited by
13References
8Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateFeb 21, 1996
Grant dateMay 26, 1998
Priority date
Expiry dateFeb 21, 2016

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB62D5/083
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for improving control of pressurized fluid flow through bootstrap power steering systems are disclosed. In particular, the methods include differentially measuring control pressure across internal flow control orifices as directly as possible. Differential control pressure measurements are made between Kelvin supply, or return, pressure values and a control pressure port of a control valve. In addition, methods and apparatus for improved speed sensitive control of steering assist and/or driver selectable steering effort are also disclosed. One of the methods comprises an extension of the method of differentially measuring control pressure across the internal flow control orifices wherein a range of control pressures are enabled. In addition, a method of improving low speed tactile steering feel wherein an electronically variable orifice is activated in order to provide additional fluid flow thereby increasing "on-center" hydraulic pressure gain is disclosed.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.