German manufacturer Audi has scored yet another point in the field of engineering. The company was awarded by the Association of German Engineers (VDI) the Mechatronic Innovation prize for the company's dynamic steering system.
“The close intertwining of different disciplines and areas of expertise is a key innovation driver at Audi. This award is fantastic recognition of it,” Ralf Schwarz, Head of Development of Chassis Control Systems said upon receiving the award on Tuesday in Wiesloch, near Heidelberg in Germany.
The dynamic steering system automatically adjusts the steering ratio and steering force to a vehicle’s speed to ensure that steering characteristics are matching any given situation. At high motorway speeds, a rather indirect steering ratio provides straight-line stability, while on winding roads at low to mid-range speeds, the wheel response provides precision.
It works with the electronic stabilization program (ESP) to automatically apply steering corrections and stabilize the vehicle. By using sensitive sensors, it determines the steering angle specified by the driver by turning the steering wheel. Then, processors evaluate relevant data and calculate the wheels’ optimum steering angle. The necessary steering assistance is available thanks to an intermediate gear driven by an electric motor.
"With this dynamic steering technology, Audi is the first automotive manufacturer to incorporate the innovative harmonic drive in a steering system. It allows for high-precision steering and can very efficiently transmit tremendous torque," Audi said in a release.
The system is available on Audi models as an option and can be ordered in conjunction with Audi drive select for the Audi A4, S4, A4 allroad, A5, S5, A5 Cabriolet, and Audi Q5.
