voimanohjausjärjestelmät

Voimanohjausjärjestelmä, often translated as "power steering system," is a mechanical or hydraulic system that assists the driver in turning the steering wheel of a vehicle. Its primary function is to reduce the effort required to maneuver the vehicle, making steering smoother and easier, especially at low speeds or when parking.

Early voimanohjausjärjestelmäs were primarily hydraulic. These systems use a pump, driven by the engine, to pressurize hydraulic fluid. This fluid is then directed through a control valve to a cylinder or rack and pinion mechanism. When the driver turns the steering wheel, the control valve opens, allowing pressurized fluid to flow to one side of a piston, assisting the movement of the steering linkage. The amount of assistance provided is proportional to the force applied by the driver.

Modern vehicles increasingly utilize electric power steering (EPS) systems, also known as steer-by-wire or electromechanical power steering. In EPS, an electric motor, rather than hydraulic fluid, provides the assistance. Sensors detect the driver's input on the steering wheel and the vehicle's speed. An electronic control unit then determines the appropriate level of assistance from the electric motor, which is typically mounted on the steering column or directly on the steering rack. EPS offers advantages such as improved fuel efficiency, reduced complexity, and the ability to integrate with other vehicle electronic systems for features like lane keeping assist.