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This paper proposes a new Electric Power Steering (EPS) control strategy that enables improvement to steering-wheel returnability. Using a conventional EPS controller, frictional loss torque in the steering mechanism reduces steering-wheel returnability, which drivers occasionally perceive as unpleasant. This phenomena occurs in any EPS system regardless of motor type or mounting location. To improve steering-wheel returnability for EPS-equipped vehicles, we developed a new control strategy based on estimation of alignment torque generated by tires and road surfaces. This proposed control strategy requires no supplemental sensors like steering-wheel angle or motor-angle sensors. We experimented with this proposed control algorithm using a test vehicle and confirmed that it enables improved steering wheel returnability and also better on-center feeling.

This paper proposes a new Electric Power Steering (EPS) control strategy that enables remarkable progress on steering maneuverability for stationary vehicles. Using a conventional controller, undesirable steering vibration prevented us from reducing steering torque. To eliminate this vibration, we developed a new control strategy based on damping for specified frequency using a motor angular-velocity estimator. We experimented with this proposed control algorithm using a test vehicle and confirmed that it enables reduced steering torque without any perceived vibration for drivers. Concerning the gradient of the assist-map, the proposed control strategy enabled more than three times higher compared with that of the same type vehicles on the market as the test vehicle. This proposed control strategy requires only the torque sensor signal, supply voltage and current to the motor, which are used in the conventional EPS systems, so no supplemental sensors are required.

Recent advancements in internal combustion engine due to stricter emission regulations require the turbocharger to function with a higher efficiency over the entire operation range. Furthermore, the need for higher boosting pressure requires the extension of rotation speed margin forcing the inclusion of resonance speeds for high order vibration modes, posing a threat on the reliability of the turbine. This paper introduces new variable geometry nozzle vanes and turbine rotor designed based on the understanding and control of tip leakage flows, utilizing both low and high fidelity CFD simulations. Low fidelity single passage steady state simulations were used for vane profile tuning and high fidelity full-scale unsteady simulations for evaluating stator-rotor interactions respectively. The new vane design is comprised of a three-dimensional stacking in the span wise direction which has been found effective in reducing the nozzle tip leakage loss.