Fault Tolerant Actuation for Steer-by-Wire Applications

This paper introduces a R&D project concerned with the development of a fault-tolerant actuation system for steer-by-wire applications. The essential safety and reliability requirements for automotive vehicles are assessed. General redundancy schemes and current practices are examined. The paper then focuses on the use of actuators based on permanent magnetic brushless dc motors, and analyses internal fault-tolerant potentials of the actuator technology with possible control schemes evaluated. Finally key innovations that may provide practical and affordable solutions are discussed.