Although experienced test drivers are used to provide a subjective evaluation of driving dynamics of new vehicles, objective testing is now essential to meet ISO and DIN defined standards.
Credit: Kistler Group
To meet the need for accurate, open loop testing, with minimum driver influence, Kistler has developed the next generation of its measurement steering wheels (MSW) for both passenger cars and heavy commercial vehicles. The new MSW retains all the ease of use characteristics of the well-tried version but with the added benefit of both DTI and CAN bus connectivity.
With the new DTI technology from Kistler, a single end to-end bus wiring system is all that is required to take the measurement signals from every sensor to the data recorder. DTI converts each signal into a unique, time stamped digital output either directly in DTI sensors from Kistler, or via suitable DTI converters for use with any existing sensors. The sensor data is collected at the central Kistler DTI logger and is transmitted via Ethernet to laptop or desktop for evaluation. The installation position, calibration values and any relevant physical variables are automatically detected using the Kistler KiCenter measurement software and can be configured in the GUI. A single cable is all that is needed to configure the sensors, to transmit and synchronize the measurement data and to supply power.
MSW DTI sensors are specifically designed to be used with modern steering wheels of passenger cars and commercial vehicles. The introduction of new driving assistance systems calls for testing equipment that performs even better. MSW DTI sensors meet the growing demands of modern automotive engineering perfectly. They offer high dynamics and excellent resolution without impairing steering wheel functions (airbag) and control elements.
The new MSW DTI incorporates non-contact measurement of steering moment, steering angle and steering speed for vehicle driving dynamics testing such as the ISO 4138 steady-state circular driving test.
MSW DTI sensors will usually be installed between the steering wheel and the steering shaft or an interchangeable adapter may be fitted to connect to the steering shaft gearing. An optional steering angle stop improves the performance of special driving manoeuvres. Both configurations are fitted with a switch-key to reset the steering moment and angle. The offset is stored and still available after voltage loss or restart. Outputs can be set to zero at any point via CAN bus,. Calibration data are stored in the sensor element, enabling the user to exchange sensor elements, if required.
To simplify installation a wide range of cables and fitting accessories are available.
The Kistler measuring steering wheel has earned its place as the preferred method of assessing the steering characteristics of both passenger cars with a 50 Nm version and a 250 Nm version for heavy commercial vehicles. Now, with DTI capability and Kistler KiCenter, the MSW can be added to an existing DTI measurement chain speeding up installation and enhancing performance.