Abstract: An electronic control system for a steering assembly having an electric motor coupled to the steering assembly for providing power assist. The electric power assist motor is drivably connected to a steering member for assisting movement thereof in response to applied input torque to the vehicle steering wheel. The electronic control unit monitors an output signal from a torsion sensor which measures the amount of applied input torque. The electronic control unit generates a pulse width modulated signal having a duty cycle proportional to the measured amount of applied input torque. Solid state switches provide connection between the vehicle battery and the motor, the connection time being controlled by the duty cycle of the pulse width modulated signal. A speed decoder determines which of a plurality of speed ranges the vehicle is moving. A plurality of look-up tables are provided, each table includes a value of power assist for a given amount of applied input torque.

Abstract: An electronic control system for a steering system having an electric motor coupled to the steering system for providing power assist. The steering system is of the rack and pinion type having an input gear coupled to the steering wheel and a pinion gear in meshing engagement with the rack. Two torsion sensors are coupled across the input and pinion gears and generate analog output signals. When no input torque is applied to the steering wheel, the output signals from the two torsion sensors are equal. When input torque is applied to the steering wheel, the signals from the torsion sensors vary substantially linearly in opposite directions. An electronic control unit controls operation of the electric power assist motor in accordance with the output signal from one of the torsion sensors. Failsafe circuitry is provided for monitoring the outputs of the redundant torsion sensors to insure proper control of the electric power assist motor.

Abstract: A seat position control device for a powered or automatic seat adjusting mechanism for motor vehicles. The motor drives for the various adjustments uses a motor with a predetermined number of poles. Thus, for each revolution of a motor, a predetermined number of pulses is generated. By counting these pulses relative to a reference, the position of the seat can be determined. Within memory, a desired location setting may be registered to return the seat to that setting when desired. A commercially available microprocessor or suitable electronic components may be used as the logic and memory medium.

Abstract: A seat position control device for a powered or automatic seat adjusting mechanism for motor vehicles. The motor drives for the various adjustments uses a motor with a predetermined number of poles. Thus, for each revolution of a motor, a predetermined number of pulses is generated. By counting these pulses relative to a reference, the position of the seat can be determined. Within memory, a desired location setting may be registered to return the seat to that setting when desired. A commercially available microprocessor or suitable electronic components may be used as the logic and memory medium.