Identification and evaluation of the real temperature loading of steering electronics

Within a few years, electric power steering (EPS) almost completely replaced hydraulic steering assistance in all vehicle segments. This is largely due to a more compact design – because the hydraulic unit is no longer needed – and a significant reduction in fuel consumption for the end customer. [1]The EPS is becoming increasingly important as a central actuator in an electronic ECU network for vehicle guidance. This means the whole EPS system must be extremely reliable. Errors with a high potential for danger must be avoided at all costs: An important parameter is the probability of failure (Failures in Time, FIT rate) of the electronics module in the steering system. This is the main focus of the cooperation between Robert Bosch Automotive Steering GmbH and the FKFS. The aim of the project is a reliable prediction of the probability of failure under realistic operating conditions for the EPS, when used by the end customer (“Real world driving”).