Variable Gear Ratio Control Using Vehicle Body Slip Angle

Abstract

Vehicles with variable steering characteristics have long been studied and compared with those having typical fixed gear ratio steering, and the variable gear ratio properties are reported to have improved maneuverability and stability in high-speed lane changes and on slippery low-friction road surfaces. However, it is not clear how gear ratios should be set for individual vehicle characteristics. Therefore, the present study has investigated a variable steering gear system using body slip angle feedback for the purpose of improved maneuverability and stability in the critical cornering range and upwards, in excess of the critical limit, and into the countersteer range. The results of a driving simulator experiment show that the steering effect improves and maneuverability and stability increase in the critical cornering range and upwards, in excess of the critical limit, and into the countersteer range by applying linear-variable control to the steering ratio from a body slip angle of 5˚. This result is seen both in double lane changes, such as in hazard avoidance, and in J-turns with long drifting. Moreover, it shows an improvement in drift controllability through prompt countersteering. Overall, the present system can enhance the driver's hazard avoidance capability.