How can you optimize steering feedback to improve driver confidence?

1 Aspects of steering feedback

Steering feedback can be divided into three main aspects: steering torque, steering angle, and steering feel. Steering torque is the force that the driver needs to apply to the steering wheel to turn it. It depends on the steering system, the tire-road friction, the vehicle speed, and the lateral acceleration. Steering angle is the amount of rotation of the steering wheel relative to the vehicle direction. It depends on the steering ratio, the vehicle speed, and the curvature of the road. Steering feel is the subjective perception of the driver about the quality and consistency of the steering feedback. It depends on the steering torque, the steering angle, and the steering system dynamics.

2 Challenges and trade-offs

Optimizing steering feedback is not a straightforward task, as it involves several challenges and trade-offs. One of the main challenges is to balance the steering feedback between different driving scenarios, such as low-speed maneuvers, high-speed cornering, and emergency situations. For example, a low steering torque may be desirable for easy parking, but it may reduce the driver's sense of control at high speeds. Another challenge is to balance the steering feedback between different driver preferences, as some drivers may prefer a light and smooth steering feel, while others may prefer a heavy and direct steering feel. A third challenge is to balance the steering feedback between different vehicle characteristics, such as mass, wheelbase, center of gravity, and aerodynamics. For example, a high steering angle may be suitable for a compact and agile vehicle, but it may cause instability and understeer for a large and heavy vehicle.

One of the main trade-offs is between steering feedback and fuel efficiency, as a higher steering torque requires more energy from the steering system, which increases the fuel consumption. Another trade-off is between steering feedback and comfort, as a higher steering angle requires more steering wheel movements, which may cause fatigue and discomfort for the driver. A third trade-off is between steering feedback and safety, as a higher steering feel may increase the driver's confidence, but it may also induce overconfidence and risk-taking behavior.

3 Best practices and tools

Optimizing steering feedback requires a systematic and iterative approach, combining engineering analysis, simulation, testing, and tuning. To achieve the best results, it is important to define clear and measurable objectives and criteria for steering feedback based on the vehicle type, target market, and customer expectations. Vehicle dynamics models and simulation software, such as CarSim, ADAMS/Car, or Dymola, can be used to evaluate and compare different vehicle configurations, steering systems, and control strategies. Objective metrics and methods such as ISO 4138, ISO 13674, or On-Center Handling Diagram can be used to quantify and analyze the steering feedback characteristics. Subjective ratings and methods like ISO 26262, ISO 15007, or Steering Feel Questionnaire can be used to assess and validate the steering feedback quality from the driver's perspective. Finally, steering feedback tuning tools such as Steer-By-Wire, Electric Power Steering, or Active Front Steering can be used to adjust and optimize the steering feedback parameters according to the driving conditions, driver preferences, and vehicle characteristics.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?