Abstract:
A control system for a motor vehicle subsystem comprises a reference model and a feedforward controller. The reference model computes desired states of the subsystem. The feedforward controller computes a first control value based on input from the reference model, and computes a second control value based on yaw rate of the vehicle and a control variable for the subsystem.
Abstract:
Apparatus, method and program product that controls the release of an electronically activated parking brake. An algorithm adjusts for cable stretch and limits the occurrence of over-release and wheel drag within the brake system. A controller monitors force incident on an actuator during a brake release operation. When a preset load is indicated, the controlling parameter of the algorithm transitions from force to position control. Once in position control, the controller uses previous position measurements and equipment specific constants to calculate a release point.
Abstract:
A system and method of controlling engine vibration mounted within a vehicle including at least one hydraulic mount, each mount including a fluid chamber. A pair of accelerometers sense relative acceleration across the mount between the engine and the frame and generate a relative acceleration signal. A control unit is electrically connected to the accelerometers. The control unit is adapted to generate an electronic control signal in response to the relative acceleration signal. The control device is responsive to the electric control signal for controlling the damping force of the hydraulic mount. A control algorithm calibrates the control unit such that maximum vibration damping occurs at and around the engine resonance bounce frequency.
Abstract:
A braking assembly (102) and method for use with a brake by wire system provides braking forces to first and second wheels (104, 106) as a function of first and second electrical brake signals. A first hydraulic brake assembly (108) coupled to the first wheel (104) applies a first braking force to the first wheel (104). A second hydraulic brake assembly (110) coupled to the second wheel (106) applies a second braking force to the second wheel (106). A first pressure sensor (112) senses a pressure of the first hydraulic brake assembly (108) and responsively produces a first pressure signal. A second pressure sensor (114) senses a pressure of the second hydraulic brake assembly (110) and responsively produces a second pressure signal. A controller (116) receives a desired brake actuation signal and responsively determines the first and second electrical brake signals. The controller also receives the first and second pressure signals, responsively detects a non-linear condition of the braking assembly (102) and responsively modifies at least one of the first and second electrical brake signals in response to detecting the non-linear condition.
Abstract:
The lower bracket assembly for a vehicle steering column includes a lower column support bracket with a central passage. A lower bearing adapter slides into the central passage from the rear. A pair of energy absorption straps engage the column support bracket and the column support bracket and resist further forward movement of the lower bearing adapter. During a collision, the energy absorption straps absorb energy while permitting the lower bearing adapter to move forward and out of the central passage through the column support bracket.
Abstract:
An apparatus for generating an amplified effect in an asymmetrical hysteretic system is disclosed. The asymmetrical hysteretic system comprises a transponent, a bias that externally grades the transponent, an energy source that drives the transponent, and a small stimulus amplified by a gain factor of the transponent. A method for generating an amplified effect in an asymmetrical hysteretic system is also disclosed.
Abstract:
A vehicle steering system includes a steering wheel and a steering shaft coupled between the steering wheel and wheels of the vehicle. The shaft is operable for rotating when the steering wheel is turned to thereby turn the vehicle wheels. A vibration damping system for absorbing vibrations in the steering wheel and shaft includes a rotor coupled to the steering shaft to rotate with the shaft and a case surrounding the rotor and a clutch surface proximate the rotor. A magnetic circuit generates a magnetic flux in the rotor. The rotor is operable to engage the clutch surface and thereby vibrationally couple the steering shaft to the case to absorb vibrations in the shaft, and when a magnetic flux is generated therein, to disengage the clutch surface so that the steering shaft may more freely rotate.
Abstract:
A damper for a vehicle rack and pinion-type power steering system reduces or eliminates high frequency and low amplitude vibrations commonly associated with high-speed steering wheel shake. The damper includes a hydraulically actuated clutch that is energized by a spring in the damper. The damper locks or inhibits rotation of a steering shaft coupled to the rack and pinion assembly while the vehicle is traveling straight down the road to absorb the input energy and cancel any vibration from the wheels, suspension or road. The clutch is released when there is any steering wheel input from the operator. Increased pressure from the power steering pump as a result of steering wheel input increases the pressure in the damper to compress a spring and release the multi-disk clutch. This allows the steering system to behave in an acceptable manner by not adding any friction or extra force requirements to the driver and providing acceptable feel and return to center characteristics for the steering system.
Abstract:
Abstract of DisclosureA safety system for a vehicle, having an adjustable headrest with a belt guide. The belt guide realigns the path of travel of a torso belt of a vehicle. The adjustable headrest provides head support to smaller sized passengers while also positioning the torso belt for the smaller sized passenger.
Abstract:
The object of this invention is directed to an improved control system and actuator for a transfer case. More particularly, this invention is directed to a hydraulic actuator and control system for a transfer case. One aspect of the present invention provides a hydraulic control system for a transfer case that includes an actuator for generating fluid pressure. The system also includes an isolation valve and a control valve in fluid communication with the actuator. The isolation valve is in a normally closed position and the control valve is in a normally open position. The system further includes a piston for applying fluid pressure to a device of the transfer case. The invention further provides a method for controlling the hydraulic pressure to a transfer case.