The steering wheel appears to be an essential part of the car. It can only be considered as an internal component responsible for determining the direction of the wheel. While this is somewhat true, the process isn’t as simple as it sounds.
The steering wheels are the most vital part of the steering system. This is necessary because the tires are too far away. Also, the wheels can control because the wheels on both sides of the car have to be steered at different angles. The driver cannot use this wheel alone and do all the necessary work, so it must connect to the driving system.
How does the steering wheel work?
The steering wheel changes the direction of the driving wheel on the steering axle, and the steering axle moves the wheels left and right. A car’s wheels don’t move in one direction because they only move in one direction. This movement appears under the steering system, which regulates the motion of the car.
During motion, the steering column, tie rod, thrust bearing, and other parts of the steering system transfer motion to the steering wheel. The wheel controls have multiple types, but the most popular are the rotary steering system, rack, and pinion system. However, the steering system of any vehicle is responsible for providing a smooth driving path.
Rack and pinion controls include mounting the gears on metal rods and moving the flywheel to engage the gears. Move the pivot side by rotating the shelf. Thus, this wheel rotates at a large angle, which becomes a small angle of rotation of the wheel.
Types of Steering Wheels
The steering wheels have the following major types:
- Telescope Steering Wheels
- Tilt Steering Wheels
- Adjustable Steering Wheels
- Swing-away Steering Wheels
- Steering Wheels with Recirculating Balls
- Rack-and-Pinion Steering Wheels
1) Telescope Steering Wheel
There is an adjustable wheel called a telescopic steering wheel which can adjust according to the driver’s height. Within 3 inches, you can adjust the wheel in different directions. The telescopic trolley controls by a telescopic mechanism that can move the trolley forward or backwards.
2) Tilt steering wheels
General Motors introduced tilting steering wheels in 1963, and they are often found in expensive cars. The adjustable steering wheel allows different people to use the car easily. Tilt steering consists of an arch that can move up and down. Due to the design of the wheels, even if the position of the wheel changes, the steering wheels don’t affect. This achieves by using a rod system under the steering wheels.
3) Adjustable steering wheels
This wheel can also adjust the height, but this is different from a telescopic wheel. You can use this command to change the command name instead of changing the height of the command. It utilizes a push-lock or electric motor as an alternative to a wheelbarrow mechanism. However, compared to steering angle, these steering wheel changes are more effective but not obvious.
4) Swing-away steering wheels
Ford first introduced this feature on the expensive Thunderbird in 1961 to make it easier to get on and off. When you park, you can move the steering wheel 9 inches to the right.
5) Steering Wheels with Recirculating Balls
The mechanism that turns the wheels in both directions is called a recirculating ball wheel. This type of steering system requires a Pitman’s arm. Also, attach the steering gear to the centre rod and crankshaft arm.
6) Rack-and-Pinion Steering Wheels
The rack and pinion wheel has a rack and pinion. In this system, rotary motion converts to linear motion. The rack and pinion system are more common in small cars than the rolling ball system.
The rack and pinion steering system use fewer moving parts. Thus, the driver can better control the direction of the car’s wheels. Facilitates driving for the driver.
What Materials are Steering Wheels Made of?
- Leather Steering Wheels
- Synthetic Resins Steering Wheels
- Polyurethane/Faux-leather Steering wheels
- Plastic Steering Wheels
- Wooden Steering Wheels
The driver must hold the steering wheel firmly, safely and securely in all conditions so that the vehicle can drive perfectly. The material used to cover the steering wheel must be beautiful and ergonomic.
The steering wheel has a variety of materials to choose from, from plastic to synthetic leather.
How important is the steering wheel?
The driver spends most of his time handling the steering wheel. Therefore, this wheel is very important. This element is essential for driving the car. In addition, different shapes and designs of the wheel improve the appearance of the car’s interior, which is why the parts are designed in different ways.
In some vehicles, the steering system has an airbag. In the event of a collision, the airbag will pass through the wheels to protect the driver. The modern steering wheels, in addition to the ability to control the various circuits and accessories of the car, also include the audio system and cruise control.
