Electric power steering is used to increase the torque applied to the steering wheel when the vehicle is turning while driving. Structurally, the electric amplifier consists of an electric motor, a worm gear and an electronic control unit with feedback.
To reduce the control effort on the steering wheel in Lada Kalina cars, an electric power steering is used - an electromechanical system that replaced the hydraulic boosters that were used in VAZ cars of previous generations. The main components of the electric booster are a powerful and compact electric motor, a worm gear and a control unit. The electric booster is activated only when the steering wheel is turned, without consuming unnecessary energy when the vehicle is moving in a straight line.
Control unit operation
The effort from the driver to the steering wheel is sensed by a torque sensor mounted on the steering shaft. The signal from the sensor is transmitted to the electronic control unit, which calculates the torque delivered by the electric motor. The electronic unit also processes the signal from the vehicle speed sensor. When the vehicle is accelerating, the electric power steering reduces the power supplied to the steering gear, allowing the driver to better control the movement.
The control unit works according to the feedback principle, processing information about the speed of the electric motor, measured using the speed sensor. Feedback allows you to correct the value of the torque generated by the electric motor.
Torque transmission
The torque from the electric motor is transmitted to the steering shaft using a worm gear, which is highly reliable and capable of transmitting large loads. This ensures a high level of safety while driving, since a failure in the operation of the hydraulic booster can lead to a road accident.
The location of the electric booster on the car
The electric power steering of the Kalina car is fixed on the steering column. Unlike bulky hydraulic boosters, its installation does not require free space in the engine compartment. The electric booster is attached to the steering column housing using a special bracket.
Electric booster malfunctions
The main reason for the incorrect operation of the electric power steering is the failure of the torque sensor or speed sensor, as well as the failure of the electric motor. To prevent the occurrence of a malfunction, it is necessary to timely diagnose the electric reinforcement system at certified service centers.
