SbW Tactile Feedback Devices (TFDs) - Noise, Vibration & Harshness Division | Parker US
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The Tactile Feedback Device (TFD™) steering unit is a key component of fully electric and electro-hydraulic Steer-by-Wire (SbW) systems. These devices provide an integrated solution that combines bearing support, steering position sensing, communication and continuously variable resistive steering torque, delivering high-fidelity tactile feedback and maximum control to the operator. The resistive steering feedback is fully programable, with custom algorithms available based on equipment operating conditions.

Force Feedback

Announcing the Next Generation in SbW Feedback

Our highly responsive Force Feedbck Device (FFD) system enhances operator confidence while delivering exceptional low-effort steering performance to boost operator comfort and offer additional design flexibility to OEMs.   Read More

Reach out to our experts for personalized assistance!  Want to learn move about how you can optimize performance? Simply contact us to connect with our knowledgeable team!

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TFD Integrated Solutions for Steer-by-Wire Applications

Features and Benefits

  • Tunable Steering Settings.  Adjust the "feel" of the steering system - lock-to-lock steering ratio, soft-stop and end-stop with vibration event signals.
  • Increased OEM Design Freedom.  Redefine the operator experience by eliminating the steering column and moving the steering wheel to optimize comfort and productivity.
  • Integrated Safety.  Fully operational, dual isolated channels provide safety redundancy.
  • Improved Operator Ergonomics.  Proprietary magnetically-responsive (MR) materials provide smooth and consistent resistive steering torque. This gives the operator a greater sense of connectedness to the vehicle.
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The TFD steering unit is typically mounted below the vehicle’s steering wheel. As the operator turns the steering wheel, the hall-effect steering sensor detects and transmits the steering position to the vehicle steering controller. The steering controller uses information from a variety of vehicle inputs to determine the preferred steering response.

 

The steering response can be programmed for partial or multiple rotations, to be speed sensitive, and to generate end-stop control, position detents and more. Integration with other devices and technologies, such as electric motors, GPS and vision systems, can provide sophisticated hybrid steering control.

 

Torque feedback to the operator is generated through our proprietary “Direct Shear Mode” design, in which a rotor attached to a shaft shears magnetically responsive (MR) material  against a fixed stator.

 

As the current commanded by the vehicle steering controller to the TF steering unit changes, a lowpower (0-1 amp) coil generates a magnetic field that instantaneously changes the properties of the MR material and the subsequent torque feedback

 

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5 Nm TFD for steering wheels less than 6"-8" in diameter

Specifically designed to meet the growing trend of adopting smaller steering wheels for lighter use vehicles such as forklifts, UTVs and greens mowers.

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12 Nm TFD for steering wheels 8"-14" in diameter

Heavier duty forklifts and most agricultural and construction vehicles benefit from the TFD with improved steering feedback, increased flexibility and reliable control signals.

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20 Nm TFD for steering wheels more than 14" in diameter

Industrial and recreational marine vehicles integrate well with the 20 Nm TFD for a maintenance-free functional design that is easy to install and features a broad set of operating conditions and environments.

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