Variable servo steering method with mechanical servo drive - using two fixed friction clutches and one adjustable friction clutch, variable with steering lock

摘要

The method involves using a mechanical drive with a gear wheel (32) which drives two floating, parallel gear rings (30) which couple to the steering via friction clutches. One of the clutches (18) is movable to alter the friction effect and thereby the servo effect as well as the reaction force which the driver experiences. The servo effect can also be adjustable via other mechanical parameters. The angle of grip of the gearing can be adjusted, or the alignment of the friction clutches. This provides a servo effect variable with steering lock. ADVANTAGE - Simple to adjust servo steering effect, control of self centering effect of steering improving straight ahead driving characteristics.