Steering Motion Quality Oriented Return-to-Center Control Strategy for Vehicles

Abstract

Most of existing steering system control strategies pay little attention to return time and speed. Additionally, most algorithms do not consider the impact of the applied torque of the driver on the steering wheel when determining the optimal return speed while the wheel is being held. This highlights an ongoing need to improve the return-to-center quality in vehicles. To address this challenge, this study proposes a steering motion quality control method based on a motion-closed loop. Here, we delineate the context wherein, by establishing a desired returnability, the return-to-center speed during release or holding phases is achieved via direct control through a motion closed-loop. This approach harmonizes the steering feel with the return-to-center performance, thereby enhancing the stability of the vehicle during straight-line driving. Subsequently, we validate the efficacy and robustness of the proposed steering motion quality-oriented vehicle return-to-center control strategy in managing returnability, as evidenced by low-speed and high-speed return-to-center simulation tests using a driving simulator.