Research on Rotational Angle Measurement for the Smart Wheel Force Sensor

Area of Science:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Automotive Engineering
• Sensor Technology

Background:

• Accurate measurement of wheel rotational angle is crucial for smart wheel force sensors (SWFS) to determine wheel forces in vehicle coordinates.
• Traditional angular transducers present structural complexities and limitations in SWFS applications.
• A simplified and effective method for rotational angle measurement is needed to improve SWFS performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel method for evaluating wheel rotational speed and subsequently calculating the rotational angle.
• To simplify the structure of SWFS by overcoming the limitations of conventional angular transducers.
• To analyze potential error sources and validate the proposed method's effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing three accelerometers to record centripetal acceleration caused by wheel rotation.
• Developing a calculation method based on recorded centripetal acceleration to determine rotational speed and angle.
• Classifying and analyzing potential sources of error associated with the proposed measurement technique.

Main Results:

• The proposed method effectively calculates wheel rotational angle using centripetal acceleration data.
• Simulations and experimental stand tests confirm the viability and accuracy of the developed technique.
• The method offers a structural simplification for smart wheel force sensors.

Conclusions:

• The novel method provides an effective alternative for measuring wheel rotational angle in SWFS.
• This approach simplifies sensor design and addresses shortcomings of traditional angular transducers.
• Further validation through real-world vehicle testing could expand its applicability in automotive systems.