Fundamentals of Steering Systems

Design and development of a modern steering system influences vehicle response to steering wheel input, driver effort, comfort, safety and fuel economy. In this interactive course participants will analyze the steering system from the road wheel to the steering wheel.

Day one will begin with a deep dive into the anatomy and architecture of the lower steering system (wheel end, suspension geometry, linkages and steering gear), its effect on vehicle response and how forces and moments at the contact patch are converted to a torque at the pinion. Next, the anatomy and architecture of the upper steering system (steering column and intermediate shaft) will be explored as well as the role of the upper steering in the occupant protection system, steering non-uniformity, and how torque and angle at the pinion is converted to torque and angle at the steering wheel.

Day two will be devoted to the anatomy, architecture and function of electric power assisted steering systems. Hydraulic and electro hydraulic power steering systems will be briefly discussed, with additional detailed information provided in the course handout.

Day three will begin with a discussion of common steering objective tests and how system design and tuning affect steering response, torque feedback and error state performance. The course will conclude with a discussion of advanced steering systems such as rear wheel steer, active front steer, active park assist and other driver assistance systems.

Participants will have the opportunity to participate in exercises throughout the course with the objective of calculating a power steering assist curve for an electric power steering system. Many physical parts will be available for the students to examine.

This course has been approved by the Accreditation Commission for Traffic Accident Reconstruction (ACTAR) for 12 Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Upon completion of this course, accredited reconstructionists should mail a copy of their course certificate of achievement and the $5 participant CEU fee to ACTAR, PO Box 1493, North Platte, NE 69103.