Voimanohjausyksiköitä

Voimanohjausyksiköitä, known in English as power steering units, are mechanical or electro-hydraulic devices designed to assist in the steering of vehicles. Their primary function is to reduce the physical effort required by the driver to turn the steering wheel, particularly at low speeds or when maneuvering in tight spaces. This assistance makes driving more comfortable and manageable, especially for larger vehicles or those with narrow tires.

There are several types of power steering systems. Older systems typically employed hydraulic power steering, which utilizes a hydraulic pump driven by the engine to generate fluid pressure. This pressurized fluid is then directed by a control valve to a hydraulic cylinder or rack, which in turn moves the steering linkage and assists the driver's input. Another common type is electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS), which combines a hydraulic system with an electric motor to power the hydraulic pump. This allows for more precise control and can optimize power assistance based on vehicle speed.

More modern vehicles increasingly use electric power steering (EPS). In EPS systems, an electric motor directly provides the steering assistance, eliminating the need for hydraulic fluid and its associated components like pumps and hoses. EPS systems are generally more energy-efficient, as the electric motor only draws power when steering assistance is needed. They also offer greater flexibility in system design and can be more easily integrated with other vehicle electronic systems, enabling features like lane-keeping assist and parking assist. The core principle across all these systems remains the same: to reduce the physical force needed to steer the vehicle, thereby enhancing the driving experience.