KR102634965B1 - Steering Wheel System and Method Supplied Electric Power in Wireless - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a steering system and method that receive power wirelessly, and is configured to communicate between a steering wheel and a vehicle through wireless communication and supply operating power to the steering wheel through a wireless power transmission function, by removing the wire or It solves vehicle breakdown and noise problems caused by disconnected wires, improves the convenience of steering wheel operation, checks wireless communication and wireless power transmission functions on its own to check for breakdowns, and maintains driving through the backup function. This has the effect of improving the safety of the vehicle.

Description

Steering system and method supplied with electric power wirelessly {Steering Wheel System and Method Supplied Electric Power in Wireless}

The present invention relates to a steering system and method that receive power wirelessly, and more specifically, to a steering wheel that is connected to the vehicle and inputs the driver's requirements, and operates by receiving power wirelessly from the vehicle. It relates to a steering system powered by and a method thereof.

A car includes a steering system that determines the direction of movement of the vehicle.

The steering system includes a steering wheel that is turned by the driver and inputs signals reflecting the driver's requirements, a steering shaft that connects the steering wheel and the vehicle body and transmits signals about the driving direction to the drive shaft connected to the wheels, and the steering wheel is on the left side. Alternatively, a sensor that detects the angle and operating speed of turning to the right and a plurality of devices that assist the steering wheel in turning to the left or right are provided.

The steering wheel not only determines the driving direction but also includes electronic devices such as multiple switches, airbags, and horns.

The steering wheel is connected to the vehicle body with a wire and receives power for operation, allowing multiple switches, horns, and airbags to operate. Additionally, the steering wheel transmits signals about the operation of a plurality of switches, airbags, and horns to the main body through wires. A plurality of switches are used to manipulate the audio or navigation of the vehicle body, change vehicle information displayed on the instrument panel, or set a hands-free function that connects the mobile terminal and the vehicle's audio.

These wires are placed inside the structure where the steering wheel and the body are connected to be protected from external shock. However, since the steering wheel is a device that determines the driving direction through rotation, the rotating force of the steering wheel may affect the wire, which may cause the wire to become twisted or disconnected, or the connection terminal may be removed, making it impossible to transmit signals. A problem arises.

In order to solve this problem, as in Korea Registered Patent No. 10-2173997, the steering wheel is installed so that phenomena such as disconnection and connection failure due to twisting of the wire or accumulation of twists do not occur even when the steering wheel is rotated. A clock spring connecting the columns is installed, and a flat wiring is wound within the clock spring to prevent twisting.

The clock spring is inserted into the steering column, and a fixed body such as a stator is fixed to the steering column body side, and a rotating body such as a rotor rotates integrally with the steering wheel.

A case that protects internal parts and forms a storage space for the flat cable, a rotor that is assembled to rotate integrally with the steering wheel side, a stator that is assembled integrally with the case to form a housing that is fixed to the steering column body side, and an auto cancel. A sleeve equipped with a cam shape for (auto cancel) and assembled to rotate integrally with the rotor, a flat cable connected to a terminal as a cable for connecting an external power source and accommodated inside the case so that it can rotate, and a flat cable to which the flat cable is connected. It includes a terminal mold block in which the rotor side terminal is inserted and assembled to the rotor.

The clock spring is connected to the rotor and operates in conjunction with the movement of the rotor.

However, due to the clock spring to protect the wire, there is a problem that noise is generated due to the movement of the wire (flat cable) included in the clock spring, and the feel of operation of the steering wheel is deteriorated due to the clock spring.

In addition, even if a clock spring is provided, a disconnection problem may still occur, and when such disconnection occurs, it is difficult to check whether the wire is disconnected because it is provided within the clock spring.

Republic of Korea Patent No. 10-2173997 (2020.10.29)

The present invention was created in response to the above-mentioned need, and is a wirelessly powered steering system and method in which the wire connecting the vehicle and the steering wheel is twisted by the rotation of the steering wheel, causing the wire to be detached or disconnected. The purpose is to provide a wirelessly powered steering system and method that solves the problem of being unable to control a vehicle.

In addition, the present invention provides a wirelessly powered steering system and method in which the steering wheel and the vehicle communicate through wireless communication and operate the steering wheel by supplying operating power to the steering wheel through a wireless power transmission function. there is.

In order to achieve the above object, a wirelessly powered steering system according to the present invention includes: a steering wheel; and a steering wheel driving unit provided in the main body of the vehicle and supplying operating power to the steering wheel, wherein the steering wheel driving unit includes a power transmission unit supplying operating power to the steering wheel through a wireless power transmission method. a first power unit that converts the power of the vehicle and applies it to the power transmission unit; a first communication unit that transmits and receives data with the steering wheel through wireless communication; a first diagnostic unit that checks the status of the power transmitter and diagnoses a malfunction; and a first control unit that controls the power transmitter to operate the steering wheel according to control commands of the vehicle and controls operation according to a diagnosis result of the first diagnosis unit.

If the operating power is not normally supplied by the power transmitter, the first diagnostic unit determines it is a failure and applies the diagnostic result to the first control unit, and the first control unit sends a warning signal in response to the diagnostic result to the vehicle. It is characterized in that the vehicle is stopped by applying to the main control unit.

The power transmission unit includes a first transmission coil; second transmitting coil; And a transmission control unit that applies the power signal from the first power supply unit to the first transmission coil and the second transmission coil, wherein the transmission control unit, in response to the diagnosis result of the first diagnosis unit, detects the first transmission coil. And when a problem occurs in any one of the second transmission coils, a power signal is applied to the normally operating transmission coil.

It further includes a first sub-controller that monitors the operation of the first control unit, and when an error occurs in the first control unit, the first sub-controller sets a backup mode and controls the steering wheel driving unit. do.

It further includes a first sub-communication unit, and when data is not transmitted or data is not received for more than a certain period of time while the first communication unit is operating, it is determined that there is a communication error and communication is performed through the first sub-communication unit. do.

The steering wheel includes a power receiving unit that receives a current applied by the power transmitting unit; a second power unit that converts the operating power supplied through the power receiver into a predetermined voltage and supplies it; a second communication unit that transmits and receives data with the first communication unit through wireless communication; a second diagnosis unit that diagnoses the state of the power receiver; and a second control unit that controls the second communication unit in response to an operation of a switch provided on the steering wheel, and controls the steering wheel in response to a diagnosis result of the second diagnostic unit.

a second sub-control unit that monitors the operating state of the second control unit; and a second sub-communication unit; It further includes, wherein when an error occurs in the second control unit, the second sub-control unit sets a backup mode and controls the steering wheel, and when a communication error occurs, the second sub-communication unit controls the steering wheel drive unit. It is characterized in that it communicates with a first communication unit or a first sub-communication unit.

The control method of a wirelessly powered steering system of the present invention includes transmitting operating power to the steering wheel through at least one of the first transmission coil and the second transmission coil when a power signal is applied to the power transmission unit of the steering wheel drive unit. step; Supplying operating power to the steering wheel by inducing current into at least one of the first and second receiving coils of the power receiving unit provided on the steering wheel; Diagnosing the status of the power transmitting unit and the power receiving unit to determine whether operating power is normally supplied; and operating the steering wheel when operating power is normally supplied.

If the operating power is not normally supplied, determining it to be a failure and approving the diagnosis result; and applying a warning signal to the main control unit of the vehicle in response to the diagnosis result to cause the vehicle to stop.

If data is not transmitted or received for more than a certain period of time, determining a communication error; Setting a backup mode in case of communication abnormality; and transmitting and receiving data through the sub-communication unit.

Setting a backup mode when an error occurs in at least one control unit of the steering wheel or the steering wheel driving unit; and controlling the steering wheel or the steering wheel driving unit through a sub-control unit.

The wirelessly powered steering system and method according to the present invention operates the steering wheel through wireless communication and wireless power transmission, thereby eliminating problems caused by wires and reducing noise caused by auxiliary devices for wires. This has the effect of improving the convenience of operating the steering wheel.

The present invention allows the wireless communication and wireless power transmission functions to be independently inspected to check for malfunctions, and the backup function allows the vehicle to be controlled and run even in the event of a malfunction, thereby improving the safety of the vehicle.

1 is a diagram illustrating a wirelessly powered steering system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a block diagram briefly illustrating the configuration of a wirelessly powered steering system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration for backup control of the steering system of FIG. 2.
FIG. 4 is a diagram referenced for explaining wireless power transmission and reception of a wirelessly powered steering system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5 is a flowchart showing a control method of a wirelessly powered steering system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

In this process, the thickness of lines or sizes of components shown in the drawing may be exaggerated for clarity and convenience of explanation. In addition, the terms described below are terms defined in consideration of functions in the present invention, and may vary depending on the intention or custom of the user or operator. Therefore, definitions of these terms should be made based on the content throughout this specification.

1 is a diagram illustrating a wirelessly powered steering system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in Figures 1 (a) and (b), the steering system according to the present invention includes a steering wheel (20), a steering shaft (90), a power transmission unit (70), Includes a power reception unit 80 and a communication unit (not shown).

The steering wheel 20 is a steering device that determines the driving direction of the vehicle by being rotated by the driver to change the direction of the vehicle's wheels.

The steering wheel 20 not only controls the driving direction of the vehicle according to the rotation of the steering wheel body 28, but is also equipped with a plurality of switches 252 to control the operation of the vehicle's audio, video, navigation, hands-free, etc. do. Additionally, the steering wheel 20 has a built-in airbag 251 and includes a horn 253.

The steering wheel 20 is connected to a rotating body such as a rotor and rotates as one unit.

The steering wheel 20 may be any one of a power steering wheel, an electric power steering wheel, a speed-sensitive steering wheel, a tilt steering wheel, and a telescopic steering wheel, depending on the method, and can be applied regardless of the operation method.

The steering shaft 90 is connected to a steering column (not shown) provided on the main body 40 side.

The steering shaft 90 acts as a rotation axis in the rotation of the steering wheel 20 and connects the steering wheel 20 to the vehicle body 40.

The steering shaft 90 is connected to the drive shaft connected to the wheels through a steering column, steering gear, or rack and pinion gear, and transmits a steering signal according to the operation of the steering wheel 20.

The steering shaft 90 can be formed in various shapes depending on the operation method of the steering wheel, and is connected to a device to assist the operation of the steering wheel 20, for example, an electric motor, a hydraulic pump, etc.

The steering wheel 20 communicates with the vehicle body 40 wirelessly through a communication unit without wires.

The communication unit is provided on the steering wheel 20 and transmits and receives data with the vehicle body 40 through wireless communication. For example, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc. can be applied to the communication unit, and any wireless communication method can be applied.

The communication unit may transmit signals according to the operation of the plurality of switches 252 provided on the steering wheel 20 to the main body 40 and transmit data of the airbag 251 and horn 253.

Additionally, the steering wheel 20 receives power through a wireless power transmission method and controls the operations of a plurality of switches 252, airbag 251, and horn 253.

In order to supply operating power to the steering wheel 20 using a wireless power transmission method, a power transmitting unit 70 is installed in the vehicle body 40, and a power receiving unit 80 is provided in the steering wheel 20.

The power transmitter 70 is installed in the vehicle body 40 in which the cluster (instrument panel) and dashboard are formed, and transmits the operating power of the vehicle to the steering wheel wirelessly.

The power transmitting unit 70 is arranged based on the position where the steering shaft 90 is connected to the lower part of the cluster (instrument panel).

The power receiver 80 is provided on the lower cover 29 of the steering wheel 20. The power receiving unit 80 is disposed adjacent to the power transmitting unit 70 at the bottom of the lower cover 29. In some cases, the power receiving unit 80 may be installed separately at the lower part of the lower cover 29.

The power transmitting unit 70 and the power receiving unit 80 each consist of a plurality of coils.

The power transmitting unit 70 may be formed in any one of a circular shape, an oval shape, a donut shape, and a fan shape, and is preferably formed in a circular shape.

It is preferable that the power receiving unit 80 has the same shape corresponding to the shape of the power transmitting unit 70. The power receiving unit 80 may be formed in any one of a circular shape, a donut shape, and a fan shape, and is preferably formed in a circular shape.

Therefore, even if the steering wheel 20 is not connected to the main body 40 by a wire, it operates by receiving operating power through the power transmitting unit 70 and the power receiving unit 80, and transmits and receives data with the main body 40 through the communication unit. can do.

Figure 2 is a block diagram briefly illustrating the configuration of a wirelessly powered steering system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As described above, the steering system for controlling the steering wheel includes a steering wheel (20) (200), a steering shaft (90), a power transmitter (70) (130), and a power receiver ( 80)(230), including the communication department (not shown).

In addition, as shown in FIG. 2, the steering system includes a steering wheel 20 (200) equipped with an airbag 2541, a switch 252, and a horn 253, and power is supplied to the steering wheel 20 (200). It includes a steering wheel driving unit 100 that supplies.

The steering wheel driving unit 100 is provided on the main body 40 of the vehicle, supplies operating power to the steering wheels 20 and 200, and communicates with the steering wheels 20 and 200 to drive the steering wheel 200 to the vehicle. ) data is transmitted, and vehicle data is transmitted to the steering wheel 20 (200).

The main control unit 10 is a control unit that controls the overall operation of the vehicle. The main control unit 10 outputs the operating state of the vehicle through the output unit 60.

When data of the steering wheel 20 (200) is received from the steering wheel driving unit 100, the main control unit 10 outputs status information corresponding thereto through the output unit 60. If there is a problem with the steering wheel 20 or 200, the main control unit 10 outputs a corresponding warning through the output unit 60.

In addition, the main control unit 10 generates a control command in response to the state of the vehicle, applies it to the steering wheel driving unit 100, and controls the operation of the steering wheel 20 (200) accordingly.

For example, when a problem occurs in the vehicle, such as an emergency stop due to a problem with the parking brake, the main control unit 10 controls the steering wheel 20 (200) through the steering wheel drive unit 100. ) to apply an operation command and control the operation.

The output unit 60 outputs status information about the vehicle including at least one of a display (not shown), HUD (not shown), speaker (not shown), lamp (not shown), and speaker (not shown). .

The steering wheel driving unit 100 includes a power transmission unit 130, a first power unit 120, a first communication unit 140, and a first control unit 110.

The steering wheel 20 (200) not only includes an airbag 2541, a switch 252, and a horn 253, but also includes a power receiving unit 230, a second communication unit 240, a second power unit 220, and Includes a second control unit 210.

The first control unit 110 wirelessly transmits power to the steering wheel 20 (200) and controls the overall wireless communication operation.

When the vehicle is started, the first control unit 110 controls the first power unit 120 and the power transmission unit 130 to transmit power to the steering wheels 20 and 200 in a wireless manner.

The first control unit 110 operates the first communication unit 140 so that the second communication unit 240 and the first communication unit 140 provided in the steering wheel 20 (200) communicate. After transmitting power, the first control unit 110 may communicate with the steering wheel through the first communication unit 140.

The first control unit 110 transmits the control command applied from the main control unit 10 to the steering wheel 20 (200) and applies data from the steering wheel to the main control unit 10.

In response to the control command of the first control unit 110, the first power unit 120 generates a power signal with a voltage of a certain level based on the operating power supplied from the vehicle and applies it to the power transmission unit 130. The first power supply unit 120 may include at least one generator or voltage conversion unit.

The power transmitting unit 130 includes at least one coil, and when the power signal generated by the first power supply unit 120 is applied to the coil, it has voltage and current of a certain magnitude.

When voltage and current are applied to the power transmitting unit 130, a certain amount of current is induced in the power receiving unit 230 provided in the steering wheel 20 (200).

The power transmitting unit 130 and the power receiving unit 230 will be described as an example of operating by electromagnetic induction, but this is only an example, and other wireless power transmission methods can also be applied.

Accordingly, power is transmitted wirelessly from the steering wheel driving unit 100 provided in the vehicle body 40 to the steering wheel 200, and the steering wheel can operate by receiving operating power.

When power is supplied to the steering wheel 200, the first communication unit 140 communicates with the second communication unit 240 according to the control command of the first control unit 110.

The first communication unit 140 and the second communication unit 240 include a wireless communication module and communicate with each other through wireless communication. The first communication unit 140 and the second communication unit 240 may use wireless communication methods such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

When current is induced in the coil of the power receiver 230, the steering wheel 200 uses the induced current to supply operating power with a voltage of a certain magnitude. The second power supply unit 220 may include at least one regulator.

The second power unit 220 generates voltages of 5V, 9V, and 12V and supplies operating power to each part of the steering wheel 200.

The second control unit 210 starts operation according to the supplied operating power and controls the operation of the steering wheel 200 by applying control commands to each unit.

The second control unit 210 starts communication with the steering wheel driving unit 100 through the second communication unit 240.

The second control unit 210 checks the operating status of the airbag 251, switch 252, and horn 253, and transmits data corresponding to the status to the vehicle body 40 through the second communication unit 240. do.

When the switch 252 is operated, the second control unit 210 generates a signal corresponding to the operated switch and transmits it through the second communication unit 240.

The second control unit 210 transmits information regarding the operation of the airbag 251 or the horn 253 through the second communication unit 240.

When data of the steering wheel 200 is received through the first communication unit 140, the first control unit 110 determines that the steering wheel 200 is operating normally and sends a corresponding signal to the main control unit 10. Authorize.

If data is not received from the steering wheel 200 within a certain period of time after transmitting power, the first control unit 110 determines that there is a problem with the steering wheel 200 and reports the problem to the main control unit 10. A signal can be applied.

The first control unit 110 determines the operating state of the steering wheel based on data received through the first communication unit 140 and applies a signal according to the switch operation to the main control unit 10.

When data of the steering wheel 200 is received through the first control unit 110, the main control unit 10 outputs status information corresponding thereto through the output unit. In addition, the main control unit 10 determines the state of the steering wheel 200 based on the data and outputs a warning through the output unit 60 when an abnormality occurs.

Additionally, the main control unit 10 executes an operation corresponding to the switch operation based on the received data. For example, the main control unit 10 controls the on/off, volume, and track of the audio or video player, and controls information displayed through the output unit 60 to be changed and displayed.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration for backup control of the steering system of FIG. 2.

As shown in FIG. 3, the steering system includes a backup function based on wireless power and wireless communication.

The steering wheel driving unit 100 further includes a first sub-control unit 160, a first diagnosis unit 170, and a first sub-communication unit 180. Additionally, the power transmission unit 130 includes a transmission control unit 133, a first transmission coil 131, and a second transmission coil 132.

The steering wheel 200 further includes a second sub-control unit 260, a second diagnosis unit 270, and a second sub-communication unit 280. The power reception unit 230 includes a reception control unit 233, a first reception coil 231, and a second reception coil 232.

The transmission control unit 133 applies the power signal generated by the first power unit 120 to the first transmission coil 131 or the second transmission coil 132 according to the control command to transmit power to the steering wheel 200. Control as much as possible.

The transmission control unit 133 applies a power signal to the first transmission coil 131 and the second transmission coil 132 to transmit power, and if there is a problem with either one, it applies the signal to the normally operating transmission coil. This ensures that power is transmitted to the steering wheel.

The transmission control unit 133 starts or ends power transmission according to the control command. Additionally, the transmission control unit 133 controls settings for power transmission and starts or ends power transmission according to the decision of the first diagnosis unit 170.

The second transmission coil 132 is used as a backup for the first transmission coil, but the first transmission coil 131 and the second transmission coil 132 can operate simultaneously.

The first transmission coil 131 and the second transmission coil 132 may be formed in a circular or donut shape. The first receiving coil 231 and the second receiving coil 232 may also be formed in a circular or donut shape.

A temperature sensor (not shown) may be provided adjacent to the first and second transmission coils 131 and 132, and the first and second receiving coils 231 and 232, respectively.

In addition, the first transmitting coil 131 and the second transmitting coil 132, and the first receiving coil 231 and the second receiving coil 232 are connected to a current sensing unit or a voltage sensing unit to detect the voltage applied to the coil. The current or voltage of the power signal can be detected.

The reception control unit 233 applies the current applied to the first reception coil 231 and the second reception coil 232 to the second power unit 220.

The reception control unit 2330 measures the current and voltage applied to the first reception coil 231 and the second reception coil 232 and applies information about the reception current to the second diagnosis unit 270. The steering wheel 200 may further include a current detection unit or a voltage detection unit.

The first diagnosis unit 170 checks the status of wireless power transmission, calculates transmission efficiency, and diagnoses abnormalities in the power transmission unit.

The first diagnostic unit 170 determines the degree of heat generation based on the temperature detected through the temperature sensor provided in the first transmission coil 131 and the second transmission coil 132 and diagnoses abnormalities accordingly.

The first diagnostic unit 170 determines whether foreign matter exists between the first transmitting coil 131 and the second transmitting coil 132 and the first receiving coil 231 and the second receiving coil 232 according to the measured temperature. Alternatively, a failure of the coil can be determined.

The first diagnosis unit 170 diagnoses the state of the power transmission unit in response to the current or voltage applied to the first transmission coil or the second transmission coil.

The second diagnostic unit 270 diagnoses the state of the power receiving unit 230 and detects abnormalities based on the current or voltage applied to the first receiving coil 231 or the second receiving coil 232.

The second diagnosis unit 270 calculates power reception efficiency and diagnoses an abnormality.

In addition, the second diagnostic unit 270 determines whether there is an abnormality or foreign matter in the receiving coil through a temperature sensor provided in the first receiving coil 231 and the second receiving coil 232.

The first sub-control unit 160 monitors the operating state of the first control unit 110. The first sub-control unit 160 controls the steering wheel driving unit 100 when an error occurs in the first control unit 110.

The second sub-control unit 260 monitors the operating state of the second control unit 210 and controls the operation of the steering wheel 200 when an error occurs in the second control unit 210.

The first sub-communication unit 180 operates when there is a problem with the first communication unit 140.

If a signal is not transmitted or received within a certain time through the first communication unit 140, the first control unit 110 or the first sub-control unit 160 determines a communication error and drives the first sub-communication unit 180.

Additionally, the second sub-communication unit 280 operates when there is a problem with the second communication unit 140.

If a signal is not transmitted or received within a certain time through the second communication unit 240, the second control unit 210 or the second sub-control unit 260 determines a communication error and drives the second sub-communication unit 280.

If there is a problem with either communication unit, the first control unit 110 or the second control unit 21 changes to a sub-communication unit and then transmits information about the communication problem to each other.

That is, when an error occurs in the first communication unit 140, the second control unit operates the second sub-communication unit and transmits information about the communication error since a signal is not received through the second communication unit within a certain time.

The first control unit 110 operates the first sub-communication unit in response to a communication error and transmits information about the communication error.

At this time, when a communication error occurs due to an error in the first communication unit, the first sub-communication unit receives the communication error signal from the second sub-communication unit and applies it to the first control unit.

When a communication abnormality signal is received, the first control unit and the second control unit can check for abnormalities in the first communication unit or the second communication unit.

When an error occurs, the first control unit 110 applies failure information to the main control unit 10.

Accordingly, it is provided with a plurality of coils, so that even if a problem occurs in one of the coils, power can be transmitted to the steering wheel 200 through the normal coil, and a backup operation for data transmission can be performed through the sub-control unit and sub-communication unit.

The steering wheel 200 can operate normally through the backup function, and the airbag 251 can receive power stably and operate normally in the event of an accident such as a vehicle collision.

FIG. 4 is a diagram referenced for explaining wireless power transmission and reception of a wirelessly powered steering system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 4, the power transmitting unit 130 and the power receiving unit 230 transmit power wirelessly from the main body 40 of the vehicle, and receive it from the steering wheel to operate the steering wheel. It is used as a power source.

A first transmitting coil 131 and a second transmitting coil 132 are provided in the main body 40 of the vehicle, and a first receiving coil 231 and a second receiving coil 232 are provided at corresponding positions.

The power transmitting unit 130 and power receiving unit 230 wirelessly transmit power using magnetic induction.

In addition to the magnetic induction method, wireless power transmission technologies such as magnetic resonance method, magnetic field sensor method, and radio wave reception method can be applied, but it is preferable to apply the magnetic induction method depending on the location and distance between the power receiver and power transmitter.

The first transmission coil 131 is formed in a circular, oval, or donut shape on the inside, and the second transmission coil 132 is formed in a circular, oval, or donut shape on the outside of the first transmission coil 131. In some cases, it is also possible to arrange a plurality of coils in a fan-shaped or trapezoidal shape based on the center.

The first receiving coil 231 is arranged to face the first transmitting coil 131 at a position corresponding to the first transmitting coil 131, and the second receiving coil 232 is disposed at a position corresponding to the first transmitting coil 131. It is arranged to face the second transmission coil 132 on the outside at a position corresponding to the second transmission coil 132.

Accordingly, when a power signal is applied to at least one of the first transmission coil 131 and the second transmission coil 132, a current is induced in at least one of the first reception coil 231 and the second reception coil 232 and flows to the steering wheel. Operating power is supplied.

A steering shaft 90 may be installed at the center of each coil.

Figure 5 is a flowchart showing a control method of a wirelessly powered steering system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 5, when the vehicle is started (ON) (S3100), the main control unit 10 operates and applies a signal to the steering wheel driving unit 100.

The first control unit 110 of the steering wheel driving unit 100 converts the voltage through the first power unit 120 and applies it to the power transmission unit 130. The first power supply unit 120 converts a voltage of 12V and supplies it to the power transmission unit 130.

The current/voltage applied to the power transmission unit 130 is applied to the transmission coil, and power is transmitted wirelessly (S320).

The receiving coil provided in the steering wheel 200 receives a current of a predetermined size by the current applied to the transmitting coil according to the magnetic induction method, and thus receives power wirelessly (S330).

The first diagnostic unit 170 checks the status of the power transmission unit 130 and determines whether there is an abnormality. The second diagnostic unit 270 checks the status of the power receiving unit 230 and determines whether there is an abnormality. The first diagnostic unit 170 and the second diagnostic unit 270 detect the temperature of the transmitting coil and the receiving coil, and detect the current or voltage to diagnose the condition.

According to the diagnosis result, the first diagnosis unit 170 and the second diagnosis unit 270 determine whether wireless power is normally supplied to the steering wheel 200 (S350).

When wireless power is normally supplied, the power receiving unit 230 applies the power applied through the receiving coil to the second power supply unit 220. The second power unit 220 converts the voltage required for each part of the steering wheel and supplies operating power to each part (S360).

The second control unit 210 starts operating according to the applied operating power, and the steering wheel 200 operates accordingly (S370).

Meanwhile, if there is an abnormality in power transmission and reception, the first diagnosis unit 170 applies the diagnosis result to the first control unit 110.

If power is not supplied to the steering wheel due to a power transmission problem, the first control unit 110 immediately transmits a warning signal to the main control unit 10. Accordingly, the main control unit 10 cannot control the driving of the vehicle when the steering wheel 200 does not operate, and thus stops the operation of the vehicle.

The first control unit 110 sets the backup mode (S380) and outputs a warning about the backup mode (S390).

In response to the backup mode, the first control unit 110 retransmits power through the normally operating transmission coil among the first transmission coil 131 and the second transmission coil 132.

Meanwhile, even when an abnormality occurs, when power is supplied to the steering wheel 200, the second diagnostic unit 270 applies the diagnosis result of whether an abnormality has occurred to the second control unit 210.

For example, if a foreign substance is located between the power transmitting unit and the power receiving unit, heat above the set temperature is generated, so the first diagnostic unit or the second diagnostic unit can diagnose that an abnormality has occurred depending on the temperature measured through the temperature sensor. Additionally, the first and second diagnostic units can diagnose an abnormality even when the efficiency of transmitted and received power is below a certain value.

The first control unit 110 or the second control unit 210 initiates communication, and if a response is not received for more than a certain period of time, it is determined that there is a communication error.

If a communication error occurs, the first control unit 110 sets the backup mode and transmits data through the first sub-communication unit 180. Additionally, the second control unit 210 sets the backup mode and transmits data through the second sub-communication unit 280.

Accordingly, the steering wheel 200 operates in backup mode (S400).

In addition, the first sub-control unit 160 monitors the operating state of the first control unit 110, and when an error occurs in the first control unit 110, sets the backup mode and controls the operation of the steering wheel drive unit 100. do.

When setting the backup mode, the first control unit 110 transmits a signal for the backup mode to the main control unit 10. The main control unit 10 outputs information about the backup mode and controls driving. If an error occurs in the first control unit 110, the first sub-control unit 160 controls the operation.

When the steering wheel 200 operates in the normal mode or backup mode, the main control unit 10 controls the driving of the vehicle in response to the steering wheel 200.

Meanwhile, when the switch 252 provided on the steering wheel 200 is operated, the second control unit 210 generates a signal corresponding to the switch operation and wirelessly transmits data through the second communication unit 240 (S420 ).

Additionally, the second sub-controller 260 monitors the operating state of the second control unit 210, and when an error occurs in the second control unit 210, sets the backup mode and controls the steering wheel 200.

The first communication unit 140 receives a signal from the second communication unit 240 and applies it to the first control unit 110, and the first control unit 110 performs a predetermined operation according to the signal or applies the signal to the main control unit 10. do.

The main control unit 10 controls components corresponding to the signal to operate and outputs a corresponding signal (S430). For example, in the case of an audio manipulation signal, the main control unit 10 transmits a control signal to the vehicle's audio to control the audio.

While the vehicle's ignition is maintained in the ON state, the power transmitter transmits power wirelessly, and the steering wheel drive unit 100 and the steering wheel 200 communicate wirelessly to transmit and receive status information.

The present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings, but these are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and other equivalent embodiments are possible therefrom. You will understand.

Therefore, the true technical protection scope of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the patent claims below.

10: main control unit 60: output unit
100: steering wheel driving unit 110: first control unit
120: first power unit 130: power transmission unit
131: 1st transmission coil 132: 2nd transmission coil
140: first communication unit 160: first sub-control unit
170: first diagnostic unit 180: first sub-communication unit
200: steering wheel 210: second control unit
220: second power unit 230: power reception unit
231: first receiving coil 232: second receiving coil
240: second communication unit 260: second sub-control unit
270: 2nd diagnostic unit 280: 2nd sub-communication unit

Claims (20)

steering wheel; and
It includes a steering wheel driving unit provided in the body of the vehicle and supplying operating power to the steering wheel,
The steering wheel driving unit,
a power transmission unit that supplies operating power to the steering wheel through wireless power transmission;
a first power unit that converts the power of the vehicle and applies it to the power transmission unit;
a first communication unit that transmits and receives data with the steering wheel through wireless communication;
a first diagnostic unit that checks the status of the power transmitter and diagnoses a malfunction;
a first control unit that controls the power transmitter to operate the steering wheel according to control commands of the vehicle and controls operation according to a diagnosis result of the first diagnosis unit;
a first sub-control unit that monitors the operation of the first control unit; and
It further includes a first sub-communication unit that operates when an error occurs in the first communication unit,
The first sub-control unit sets a backup mode and controls the steering wheel drive unit when an error occurs in the first control unit,
If data is not transmitted or received for more than a certain period of time while the first communication unit is operating, one of the first control unit and the first sub-control unit determines that there is a communication error in the first communication unit and 1 Set to communicate through the sub communication unit,
The steering wheel is,
a second communication unit that transmits and receives data with the first communication unit through wireless communication; and
a second sub-communication unit that transmits and receives data with the first sub-communication unit through wireless communication; Including,
A steering system receiving power wirelessly, characterized in that the second sub-communication unit communicates with the first communication unit or the first sub-communication unit when a communication error occurs. According to claim 1,
The first diagnosis unit determines a failure when operating power is not normally supplied by the power transmission unit and applies the diagnosis result to the first control unit,
A steering system receiving power wirelessly, wherein the first control unit applies a warning signal to the main control unit of the vehicle in response to the diagnosis result to cause the vehicle to stop. According to claim 1,
The power transmitter is
first transmitting coil; second transmitting coil; and
It includes a transmission control unit that applies a power signal from the first power unit to the first transmission coil and the second transmission coil,
The transmission control unit is characterized in that, in response to the diagnosis result of the first diagnosis unit, when an abnormality occurs in any one of the first transmission coil and the second transmission coil, a power signal is applied to the normally operating transmission coil. Wirelessly powered steering system. According to claim 3,
The power transmission unit further includes a current detection unit connected to the first transmission coil or the second transmission coil to detect current or a voltage detection unit to detect voltage,
A steering system receiving power wirelessly, characterized in that the first diagnosis unit diagnoses the state of the power transmission unit in response to the current or voltage applied to the first transmission coil or the second transmission coil. According to claim 3,
The power transmission unit further includes a temperature sensor installed adjacent to the first transmission coil or the second transmission coil,
A steering system receiving power wirelessly, characterized in that the first diagnostic unit diagnoses the state of the power transmitter according to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor. According to claim 5,
A steering system receiving power wirelessly, wherein the first diagnostic unit determines whether there is foreign matter between the power transmitter and the steering wheel in response to the temperature. delete delete According to claim 1,
The steering wheel is,
a power receiving unit that receives the current applied by the power transmitting unit;
a second power unit that converts the operating power supplied through the power receiver into a predetermined voltage and supplies it;
a second diagnosis unit that diagnoses the state of the power receiver; and
A wirelessly powered steering system further comprising a second control unit that controls the second communication unit in response to an operation of a switch provided on the steering wheel and controls the steering wheel in response to a diagnosis result of the second diagnostic unit. system. According to clause 9,
a second sub-control unit that monitors the operating state of the second control unit; It further includes,
The second sub-control unit sets a backup mode and controls the steering wheel when an error occurs in the second control unit. According to clause 9,
The power receiver
first receiving coil; second receiving coil; and
A wirelessly powered steering system comprising a receiving control unit that applies current applied from the first receiving coil and the second receiving coil to the second power supply unit. According to claim 11,
It further includes a steering shaft that connects the steering wheel and the body of the vehicle to transmit a steering signal,
The first transmission coil of the power transmission unit is provided on the inside in a form surrounding the steering axis around the steering axis, and the second transmission coil is provided on the outside of the first transmission coil,
The first receiving coil is disposed to face the first transmitting coil at a position corresponding to the first transmitting coil,
A steering system receiving power wirelessly, characterized in that the second receiving coil is disposed at a position corresponding to the second transmitting coil and facing the second transmitting coil. According to claim 11,
The first and second transmitting coils of the power transmitting unit and the first receiving coil and the second receiving coil of the power receiving unit are wireless, characterized in that the inner side is at least one of a circular shape, an oval shape, and a donut shape. Steering system powered by . According to clause 9,
A steering system powered wirelessly, wherein the power transmitter and the power receiver transmit power wirelessly using magnetic induction. When a power signal is applied to the power transmission unit of the steering wheel driving unit, transmitting operating power to the steering wheel through at least one of the first transmission coil and the second transmission coil;
Supplying operating power to the steering wheel by inducing current into at least one of the first and second receiving coils of the power receiving unit provided on the steering wheel;
Diagnosing the status of the power transmitting unit and the power receiving unit to determine whether operating power is normally supplied; and
When operating power is normally supplied, operating the steering wheel;
If data is not transmitted or received for more than a certain period of time, determining a communication error and setting a backup mode;
If it is determined that the communication is abnormal, transmitting and receiving data through a sub-communication unit;
setting the backup mode when an error occurs in at least one control unit of the steering wheel or the steering wheel driving unit; and
Comprising: controlling the steering wheel or the steering wheel driving unit through a sub-controller,
In the step of transmitting and receiving data through the sub-communication unit,
Any one of the first control unit and the first sub-control unit of the steering wheel drive unit is set to communicate through the first sub-communication unit when it is determined that there is a communication error in the first communication unit,
A control method of a steering system, characterized in that the second sub-communication unit of the steering wheel communicates with the first communication unit or the first sub-communication unit when a communication error occurs. According to claim 15,
If the operating power is not normally supplied, determining it to be a failure and approving the diagnosis result; and
A method of controlling a steering system further comprising: applying a warning signal to the main control unit of the vehicle in response to the diagnosis result to cause the vehicle to stop. According to claim 15,
When diagnosing the status of the power transmitter and the power receiver,
measuring current or voltage applied to the first transmission coil and the second transmission coil;
measuring current or voltage applied to the first receiving coil and the second receiving coil; and
A method of controlling a steering system further comprising: determining whether an abnormality has occurred in response to the measured current or voltage. According to claim 15,
When diagnosing the status of the power transmitter and the power receiver,
measuring the temperature of the first transmission coil and the second transmission coil;
measuring the temperature of the first receiving coil and the second receiving coil; and
A method of controlling a steering system further comprising: determining whether an abnormality has occurred in response to the measured temperature. delete delete

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