HYDROSTATIC STEERING SYSTEM AND ENERGY SAVING EVALUATION IN IDLE REGIME

The main goal of modern steering systems is to ensure the feeling of control whilst keeping an high safety level since steering is one of the most critical function of a mobile machine. In manifold mobile machines the architecture include priority valves that on one hand increase safety, on the other increase the energy demand. In the present work a conceptual study of a novel steering system is outlined. With this architecture some reduction of fuel consumption can be obtained avoiding flow supply in idle condition. The system is separated from the rest of the hydraulic system thus the priority valve is not necessary. The aim of the system is to have the same characteristics of a classical system (with steering unit), with a better energy behavior in idle regime. Several simulations will be analyzed with the aim of studying the steering performance with emphasis on the steering wheel control characteristics in both normal and emergency operation.