Compensation of Power Supply Fluctuations in Electric Power Steering (EPS) Systems

Due to lower tax rates there are in Brazil many vehicles equipped with 1.0L engines. Nevertheless, consumers still want in these cars air conditioning, steering assistance and embedded electronic devices. The low power developed by such engines can, in some cases, compromise the quality of the electrical power supply in the vehicle, leading to voltage fluctuations, which could interfere with the dynamic behavior of Electric Power Steering (EPS) systems. In the worst case, voltage dips could induce undesired torque pulses on the steering wheel, causing an unpleasant feeling for the driver. The present work demonstrates a power supply fluctuation compensation strategy that electronically minimizes the consequences of sudden voltage dips in vehicles equipped with 1.0L engines. Simulations and experimental results are also included.