What are the types of steering systems?
1 Answers
There are three types of steering systems: mechanical power steering system, electro-hydraulic power steering system, and electric power steering system. The mechanical power steering system uses the driver's physical strength as the steering energy source, and all the force-transmitting components are mechanical. The mechanical steering system consists of three major parts: the steering control mechanism, the steering gear, and the steering transmission mechanism. In the electro-hydraulic power steering system, the steering oil pump is no longer directly driven by the engine but is driven by an electric motor, and an electronic control system is added on top of the previous setup, making the steering assist force not only related to the steering angle but also to the vehicle speed. The mechanical structure includes added hydraulic reaction devices and fluid distribution valves, while the new electronic control system includes vehicle speed sensors, solenoid valves, steering ECU, etc. The electric power steering system can provide variable assist, which requires a complex balance between power and control. The electric power steering system is replacing the hydraulic power steering system as the mainstream steering system in automobiles.