Driving Simulator Assessment of Speed-Adaptive Steering Ratios for Front and Rear Axles

In automotive engineering, the study of vehicle dynamics focuses on two key objectives: ensuring maneuverability and maintaining stability. At low speeds, maneuverability is crucial to achieve a tight turning radius, while at high speeds, especially during cornering with significant lateral acceleration, stability becomes crucial. Traditional vehicles, with front-wheel steering system, typically rely on a fixed steering ratio, dictated by the mechanical connection between the steering column and the steering arm, which represents a compromise between the two cited requirements. However, modern vehicles equipped with Steer-by-Wire (SBW) system can dynamically adjust steering ratios for both front and rear axles while the vehicle is moving. At low speed, this feature reduces the steering wheel angle required for a given trajectory, decreasing the driver’s effort and enhancing maneuverability; while at high speed vehicle stability is enhanced by minimizing the Side-Slip Angle.