5 Advantages of Steer-By-Wire Systems

As we push further into the 21st century, steer-by-wire systems continue to be the present and the future of power steering systems. In 2018, the global value of the drive-by-wire market was estimated at nearly $19 billion and is expected to increase to over $35 billion by 2026. 

As autonomous driving continues to gain popularity, and 55 percent of small businesses believe they will transition to fully autonomous vehicle fleets over the next few decades, the future of self-sufficient driving relies heavily on steer-by-wire technology. 

Let's examine how steer-by-wire systems work and the five key advantages they can provide for off-highway vehicles.

Recreating Traditional Steering Feel With Steer-By-Wire

Traditional steering systems use mechanical and hydraulic technology to conduct vehicle operations. However, steering mechanism demands have changed over the years, and manufacturers are investing in alternative options. 

Steer-by-wire is a technology that relies primarily on electronics to control vehicle operations. This means that components like the steering column in the shaft, master cylinder, cables, and hydraulic lines are replaced by electrical wires. 

The absence of potential mechanical interference allows for optimal steering command and, ultimately, will require less equipment repair and maintenance. 

The system works through sensors that record information passed onto a computer, transfer these commands with electrical energy, and move the vehicle. The technology promotes easier maneuverability around corners, getting into tight parking spaces, and avoiding road obstacles. 

It is also advanced enough to help compensate for road camber changes and crosswinds, which removes the need to add steering correction to vehicles.

Benefits of Steer-By-Wire Systems

Maneuverability is just the start of what makes steer-by-wire systems beneficial, especially for off-highway vehicles. Consider these additional perks.

Simple & Efficient Vehicle Architecture 

Not dealing with mechanical components allows for more fluidity in a steer-by-wire system. For starters, eliminating mechanical steering parts will reduce the overall weight of your off-highway vehicle, which saves energy and can vastly reduce tire and brake wear. 

Vehicle manufacturers can also benefit from having more flexibility with engine compartments and interior design, as mechanical steering parts require more space and areas for installation than electrical wire systems.

Avoiding mechanical steering parts can also lead to overall reductions in installation and maintenance costs. 

Flexible & Enhanced Operating Performance 

One of the premier ways steer-by-wire systems enhance operating performance is by eliminating a steering column. Removing the steering column improves operator visibility by expanding the line of sight. 

Because there is no direct mechanical link to the road, bumps, vibrations, and noises won't transmit to the operator, providing a more comfortable, less distracting operational experience. 

No steering column also increases flexibility for interior design, giving manufacturers room to place controls anywhere they please. 

Improved Fuel Efficiency 

To put it simply, fewer moving mechanical parts means reduced fuel demand and costs. 

Researchers from Purdue University conducted studies on fuel efficiency with steer-by-wire vehicles, specifically compact wheel loaders, finding that electrohydraulic steering technology reduced fuel consumption by nearly 15% and improved overall fuel efficiency by 43.5%. 

Better fuel efficiency also means fewer carbon emissions, making your off-highway vehicle more environmentally friendly. 

Refined Safety Features

Safety is always a top priority for vehicle operators, and electronic steering systems cater to providing a more secure and controlled operating environment. 

Steer-by-wire systems feature parametric steering capabilities, allowing the operator to alter steering reactions based on speed and operating conditions. 

In addition to better operating adaptation capabilities, removing a steering shaft can reduce operator injury risk. 

Remote Control Capabilities

In certain scenarios, removing the driver is the safest choice, and controlling the vehicle remotely is the most promising option. Autonomous driving manufacturers are harnessing the potential of steer-by-wiring systems because they are designed to allow for remote control, a feature that piques curiosity and hints at the exciting possibilities of future vehicle technology.

The vehicle's remote capability allows for advanced driver assist systems (ADAS) support and ensures their flawless execution. 

This is made possible by the precise electronic control and rapid steering maneuvers of the steer-by-wire system, significantly improving the vehicle's overall safety through a quicker reaction time.

Are There Any Drawbacks? 

One of the biggest arguments against drive-by-wire systems is that there is always the risk of failure. However, this is a standard process with innovative and streamlined products, especially for some individuals resistant to new technology. 

It's important to note that steer-by-wire systems are designed with multiple redundancies and fail-safe mechanisms to ensure safety and reliability and mitigate these risks. 

With companies like BMW, Volkswagen, and Mercedes-Benz implementing these systems in some of their vehicles, steer-by-wire will undoubtedly continue growing in popularity.

How Safe Are Steer-By-Wire Systems?

Steer-by-wire systems are considered a very safe option, especially for the elderly or disabled, because they remove any vibration when driving over uneven terrain. They also provide a higher steering ratio, making navigating corners at lower speeds easier. 

The result is less hand-over-hand steering, more control when making sharp turns, and easier to grasp the steering yoke if the vehicle does lose control.

Steering Jargon You May Not Know 

Custom steering enhances your driving experience, can offer better grip, and improves your vehicle's aesthetics. Creating a customized option means understanding what the components provide, and all the different jargon can make it confusing. 

Some key terms can be helpful to know when you start working with your engineering or fabrication team, and here are just a few:

• Column: The entire steering assembly

• Outer Tube: The main tube that holds the steering shaft connected to the vehicle

• Flange: A metal plate mounted to the steering control motor or floor

• Above Pivot Length: The length of the column in a tilt type from the top of the upper tube to the center axis of the pivot

• Rocker Switch: The switch for allowance of auxiliary vehicle functions

• Collar: The structure to mount accessories with a larger diameter

• Upper End: A common shaft component that matches the steering wheel

• Jacket Length: The measurement of the straight column from the top of the outer tube to the bottom of the flange

Steer-By-Wire Solutions: BSM North America 

There is no doubt that steer-by-wire systems are an essential part of an innovative solution to make driving processes easier. When it comes to enhancing your vehicles with off-road steering columns, BSM North America is a trusted name. At BSM North America, we can provide you with numerous options for innovative steer-by-wire and electro-hydraulic systems. 

Contact us today to see how BSM has electronic steering solutions to enhance your off-highway vehicle design or give us a call at 952-890-8146 to speak to one of our engineers about why E-Steer adapters may be the best resource for you.