styringsgeometri

Styringsgeometri refers to the arrangement and angles of the wheels and suspension components of a vehicle that determine how it steers and handles. This geometric setup is critical for vehicle stability, tire wear, and driver control. Key elements of steering geometry include camber, caster, and toe.

Camber is the angle of the wheel in relation to the vertical axis when viewed from the front. Positive camber means the top of the wheel tilts outward, while negative camber means it tilts inward. This angle affects tire wear and cornering grip.

Caster is the angle of the steering axis in relation to the vertical axis when viewed from the side. It influences steering stability and the self-centering tendency of the steering wheel. Positive caster generally improves straight-line stability.

Toe refers to the angle of the wheels in relation to each other when viewed from above. Toe-in means the front edges of the wheels are closer together than the rear edges, while toe-out means the opposite. Correct toe settings are essential for reducing tire scrub and ensuring predictable steering response.

Kingpin inclination, also known as steering axis inclination (SAI), is the outward tilt of the steering axis at the top when viewed from the front. This angle, along with caster, contributes to the steering system's self-centering action.

These geometric parameters are carefully engineered by vehicle manufacturers to achieve a balance between various performance characteristics, such as responsiveness, stability, and tire longevity. Adjustments to steering geometry are typically performed during wheel alignment procedures to correct for wear, damage, or to tune the vehicle's handling for specific driving conditions.