By Ian Wright
Once upon a time, part of BMW's appeal as The Ultimate Driving Machine was the steering feel built into all of its cars. Since around 2015, and the introduction of electric power steering rather than hydraulic power steering systems, a common criticism of BMW models, including the M performance cars with the new systems, is numb feeling steering.
Now, BMW might have a plan to fix that, based on a patent recently found by CarBuzz. It involved a new electrical steering system with feedback built in. The keywords in the patent are a stochastic noise component, which, to you and me, translates as a random noise generator. Yes, steering with a random noise generator.
Of Course, There's Nuance
More technically, stochastic noise typically means non-linear amplification. Noise stems from vibration, which is where the feel aspect comes in. BMW is particularly concerned with steer-by-wire, which is a system where the steering wheel is not mechanically connected to the front axle steering mechanism. The reason we feel resistance from steer-by-wire systems is because an actuator is creating torque to push through when the wheel is turned.
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What BMW proposes is creating vibration in the steering wheel that's proportional, taking into account vehicle speed and things like acceleration. Indeed, it does seem like BMW just invented the Force Feedback gaming steering wheel. But, BMW is taking it a step further and talks about using the system to create pleasant sensations through the steering wheel while driving using – strap in for this – red noise, pink noise, or white noise.
Indeed, not only could your future BMW use an advanced version of the sim racing wheel controller you use to play Gran Turismo or Assetto Corsa, but it could use the same frequencies YouTube videos advertise to help sleep or study in different modes. Non-cynically, pink noise most closely matches the frequency spectrum of a waterfall, which could be relaxing on the hands on the freeway.
Just As Non Cynically
In the realm of speculation, BMW's M division has access to some seriously sophisticated simulation hardware for its drivers to train on and for prototype testing. That's how accurate feedback can be generated through the wheel based on electronic input alone. In the real world, electronic steering systems do bring the benefit of precision over hydraulic systems, but hydraulic systems bring the benefit of steering feel, helping the driver know what exactly is going on in the steering system and where the tires meet the road.
Source: German Patent and Trademark Office
Read the full article on CarBuzz
This article originally appeared on CarBuzz and is republished here with permission.
