servostyring

Servostyring, often referred to as power steering, is a system designed to reduce the effort required from the driver to steer a vehicle. It assists the steering mechanism, making it easier to turn the wheels, especially at low speeds or when parking. This assistance is typically provided by a hydraulic pump, an electric motor, or a combination of both.

The core principle of servostyring involves sensing the driver's input on the steering wheel and then augmenting that input with a force generated by the assistance system. In hydraulic servostyring, a pump driven by the engine circulates hydraulic fluid. When the driver turns the wheel, valves direct the fluid to one side of a piston in a steering gear, creating pressure that helps move the steering linkage. Electric servostyring uses an electric motor that directly applies torque to the steering column or rack, controlled by electronic sensors and a control unit.

The benefits of servostyring include significantly reduced steering effort, improved maneuverability, and enhanced driver comfort. This is particularly beneficial for larger vehicles or those with wider tires. However, early systems could sometimes provide too much assistance, leading to a loss of road feel. Modern servostyring systems often incorporate variable assist, adjusting the level of power steering based on vehicle speed, providing more resistance at higher speeds for better stability and less at lower speeds for easier maneuvering.