A power steering system having two or "dual" steering ratios is provided. The power steering system includes a transmission having first and second gear ratios, a steering gear coupled to the transmission, and a power assist coupled to the steering gear for providing power assist to the steering system. In one embodiment, the power steering system is configured to operate with a first steering ratio, such as a "fast" ratio, during normal operating conditions of the steering system (e.g., when power-assist is functional), and is configured to operate with a second steering ratio, such as a "slow" ratio, during abnormal operating conditions of the steering system (e.g., power-assist is non-functional, partially functional, etc.). The second steering ratio of the steering system can provide a fail safe mode for the vehicle operator so that the vehicle can be safely steered to a suitable location (e.g., side of the road, etc.) during abnormal operations conditions of the steering system.
STEERING SYSTEM HAVING DUAL STEERING RATIOS
LENKSYSTEM MIT ZWEI LENKVERHÄLTNISSEN
SYSTÈME DE DIRECTION PRÉSENTANT DEUX RAPPORTS DE DIRECTION
20.07.2016
Patent
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch
IPC: | B62D MOTOR VEHICLES , Motorfahrzeuge |
Steering apparatus providing variable steering ratios
Europäisches Patentamt | 2019
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