What is a car steering wheel
The car steering wheel (also known as the steering wheel) is a wheel-shaped device used to control the direction of a vehicle's travel. It is connected to the wheels through the steering system, and the driver changes the vehicle's direction of travel by turning the steering wheel.
Core function
Youdaoplaceholder0 Control direction : The driver drives the steering shaft by turning the steering wheel, and the torque is transmitted to the wheels through the gear system to achieve left and right steering.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Safety component : In a collision accident, the steering wheel can buffer the impact between the driver and the steering wheel, reducing the risk of injury.
Key parameters
Youdaoplaceholder0 free travel : The normal range is 10° to 15°. If it exceeds 25°, adjustments should be made to avoid sluggish steering or excessive operation.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Mechanical design : The circular structure ensures uniform torque distribution, reduces driving fatigue, and makes operation more efficient during emergency avoidance.
Historical evolution
When Karl Benz invented the first car in 1886, he adopted a circular steering wheel. Due to its symmetry, it could evenly transmit torque, and it remains the mainstream design in the industry to this day.
The function of the car steering wheel is to convert the driver's steering intention into the steering action of the wheels. Its working principle is based on the rack and pinion mechanism to achieve torque transmission and motion conversion.
Core function
The force applied by the driver on the edge of the steering wheel is converted into torque through the rack and pinion mechanism and transmitted to the steering shaft. Eventually, the steering gear drives the wheels to rotate left and right, achieving vehicle steering.
Detailed Explanation of the Principle
Youdaoplaceholder0 torque transmission
The force applied to the edge of the steering wheel is transmitted to the steering gear through the steering shaft. The steering gear converts the rotational motion into linear motion (such as the reciprocating motion of the rack and pinion mechanism), and then drives the front wheels to rotate through the steering tie rod.
Youdaoplaceholder0 labor-saving design
A larger diameter of the steering wheel can reduce the force applied by the driver. Combined with a hydraulic or electric power steering system, it can further reduce the operational burden (for example, the power steering system can reduce the required torque from 20-30Nm to 3-6Nm).
Youdaoplaceholder0 Safety protection
Some models are equipped with airbags, which act as a buffer in the event of a collision and reduce the risk of injury to the driver.
The development of modern technology
Modern automobiles generally adopt electric power steering systems (EPS), which directly provide auxiliary power through motors. Compared with traditional hydraulic systems, they are more energy-efficient and respond faster.
Car steering wheel malfunctions may be caused by various reasons. The following are common causes and solutions:
The steering wheel is locked.
It is commonly seen that the steering wheel is not straightened or the key is not removed after the engine is turned off, triggering the anti-theft system to lock up. It can be unlocked in the following ways:
Turn the steering wheel slightly
Insert the key to start (for some models, you need to step on the brake at the same time)
Power steering system failure
Youdaoplaceholder0 Hydraulic power steering system : Insufficient oil, pump damage or leakage can cause heavy steering. Check the oil level or replace the parts
Youdaoplaceholder0 Electric power assist system : Motor or sensor failure may cause the fault light to come on. Professional detection is required for
Wear of mechanical components
Rust or wear of the steering tie rod and ball joint will cause increased resistance, and the relevant components need to be replaced
Damage to the shock absorber or support arm may change the wheel Angle, and the suspension system needs to be repaired
Abnormality of the electronic system
Faults in the steering Angle sensor and control module may cause the fault light to come on. Professional equipment should be used for detection
The steering wheel control system (such as the steering column lock) requires professional handling
Tire and four-wheel alignment
Insufficient tire pressure or abnormal wear will increase friction and should be adjusted to the standard value
If the toe-in Angle and camber Angle are inaccurate, the four-wheel alignment needs to be recalibrated
If the steering wheel suddenly malfunctions while driving, the hazard warning lights should be turned on immediately and the brakes should be applied slowly to stop the vehicle. Do not brake suddenly or force the steering wheel to avoid losing control.
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