What Does Power Steering Mean in Cars?
1 Answers
Power steering in cars refers to a system that uses external power to generate supplementary steering force, thereby reducing the effort required by the driver to operate the steering wheel (also known as the handwheel) by counteracting steering resistance with additional force. There are three common types of power steering: mechanical hydraulic power steering, electro-hydraulic power steering, and electric power steering. Mechanical hydraulic power steering is widely used and offers advantages in terms of cost, space, and weight, as it employs pressurized oil to enhance servo pressure, a method that is mature and effective. Electro-hydraulic power steering systems no longer rely on the engine to directly drive the steering pump; instead, an electric motor is used for this purpose. Additionally, an electronic control system is integrated, making the steering assistance not only dependent on the steering angle but also related to the vehicle speed. Electric power steering provides additional benefits in terms of weight and engine compartment space, as it eliminates all hydraulic components.