Nissan’s steer-by-wire cars set for 2013 launch
Nissan is to sell cars controlled by steer-by-wire technology within a year.
The system works by sending electronic signals from the steering wheel to a computerised unit that then controls the movement of the tyres, rather than using a mechanical link.
According to Nissan, this increases the direct driving performance feel by quickly and intelligently communicating road surface feedback to the driver.
"The technology controls and insulates the vehicle from unnecessary road-generated disturbances to deliver only the necessary performance feel to the driver," said the company in a statement. "For example, even on a road surface with minor ridges or furrows, the driver no longer has to grip the steering wheel tightly and make detailed adjustments, so travelling on the intended path becomes easier."
In addition to the next generation steering technology, Nissan has developed a camera-based straight-line stability system to further enhance on-centre driving capability.
The system, claimed to be a world first, is designed to improve vehicle stability by making small input angle adjustments so the vehicle will accurately trace and continue as planned in the lane it is travelling.
If the vehicle direction changes due to road surface or crosswinds, the system acts to minimise the effect of these conditions resulting in reduced steering input from the driver.
Using a camera mounted above the vehicle's rear-view mirror, it analyses the road ahead, recognises the lane direction, detects changes in the vehicle's direction and transmits this information to multiple electronic control units as electronic signals.
If a discrepancy occurs, the system acts to reduce the discrepancy by controlling the opposing force to the tire angle. By reducing the frequency of detailed steering input adjustments, which are a cause of fatigue on long drives, the driver's workload is greatly reduced.
The technology is achieved by multiple ECUs. In the event a single ECU malfunctions, another ECU will instantly take control, and in extreme circumstances such as the power supply being disrupted, the backup clutch will act to connect the steering wheel and wheels mechanically, ensuring continued safe travel.
Nissan says it will introduce the steer-by-wire technology to some Infiniti models next year. The company claims this will be the first mass implementation of the technology in commercial vehicles.
For a more detailed paper on how the technology works, click here.
