Design and evaluate controller for power steering system

Abstract

The integration of Electric Power Steering (EPS) in automobiles is crucial to reduce the steering effort for drivers while ensuring optimal steering performance to aid in vehicle control. The EPS system mandates a minimum 2Nm torque input from the driver to initiate steering wheel movement in all conditions. Key components of the electric power steering system include the torque sensor, DC motor assistance, current sensor, and an Electronic Control Unit (ECU). This study is dedicated to mathematically modeling and characterizing the EPS System. We have developed a mathematical model for column-assisted front-wheel steering using Newton's equations of motion. The controller for our model was designed based on assist characteristic curves and algorithmic control. Test results demonstrate that our self-designed ESP controller, utilizing an innovative motor control approach, significantly enhances ease of steering and controllability perception. Furthermore, it meets the specified criteria for steering performance.

Keywords

• electric vehicle
• electric power steering system
• state-space
• pid controller