Electric steering provides hydraulic feedback

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team May 13, 2008

The Danaher Motion Torque Feedback Device (TFD) delivers the performance and maintenance benefits of electric or steer-by-wire systems, with the tactile response of a hydraulic system.

The Danaher Motion Torque Feedback Device (TFD) combines tactile and position or velocity feedback with a steering wheel interface in a compact, IP66-rated package.

This allows electronic vehicle system (EVS), personal mobility and related mobile off-highway machine builders to develop robust vehicles and machines that deliver the performance and maintenance benefits of electric or steer-by-wire systems, with the tactile response of a hydraulic system.

"The Torque Feedback Device provides input to a controller that commands the actuation mechanism in steering and other by-wire applications".

"The device also provides continuously variable torque output to simulate the 'feel' that users of hydraulic systems are comfortable with, allowing operators to more easily adapt to an electric steer or steer-by-wire vehicle system".

"With legacy electric steering systems this functionality either didn't exist, was too complex, or had to be developed and implemented by the vehicle manufacturer", says Geoff Rondeau, Product Manager.

The Torque Feedback Device is available in five standard configurations, with torque densities ranging from 2.5 to 12Nm.

They are tested to provide long life of more than 10,000,000 revolutions at 120rev/min and are engineered to operate in ambient temperatures from -35 to +60C.

The TFD has a footprint as small as 83 x 102mm and is available as a standalone component that can be integrated into nearly any electric or steer-by-wire system, or as part of a larger Danaher Motion vehicle system.

The Torque Feedback Device provides a variable torque output in proportion to a DC input for steering and other by-wire applications by applying friction materials and an electromagnetic actuation system.

The TFD also incorporates redundant sensors for failsafe shaft feedback and serviceability.

A modular design enables the device to be easy adapted to specific application needs.

All components and the finished assembly meet EU directive 2002/95/EC (RoHS) and are designed for use in EN 1175 and IEC 61508-compliant systems.