What is the principle of steering wheel controlling the wheels?
2 Answers
Automobile steering wheel is a control component, so it is necessary to understand the steering system of the car. The principle of the entire steering mechanism is to convert circular motion into linear motion through a rack and pinion, thereby pushing the wheels to rotate. Speaking solely of the steering wheel, it is essentially a lever. The radius of the steering wheel is the length of the lever arm, and the larger the steering wheel, the more effort-saving it is. Extension: Automobile steering gears are divided into several types. The most common are rack and pinion steering gears and recirculating ball steering gears. The rack and pinion steering system has quickly become the most widely used type of steering system in cars, minivans, and SUVs. Its working mechanism is very simple. The rack and pinion gear set is enclosed in a metal tube, with each end of the rack protruding outside the metal tube and connected by tie rods. The pinion is connected to the steering shaft. When the steering wheel is turned, the pinion rotates, thereby driving the rack to move. The tie rods at each end of the rack are connected to the steering arm of the steering shaft.
When I ponder about cars, the principle of how the steering wheel controls the wheels is quite fascinating: turning the steering wheel drives a long shaft connected to the front steering gear. This system, called the rack and pinion mechanism, converts rotational motion into lateral pulling, pushing the wheel hub to turn the wheels via the steering linkage. The whole process becomes more effortless with hydraulic or electric power assistance. While driving, it's essential to watch out for unusual noises or looseness. If the steering wheel becomes too heavy or unresponsive, promptly check the fluid or electrical circuits; otherwise, losing control during high-speed turns is possible, especially in rainy or snowy conditions, which is even more dangerous. I've found that regular maintenance of the steering system can prevent major repairs, such as lubricating joints and checking belt wear, as a well-functioning and safe car is ultimately what matters most.