1. Basic Structure
The steering column, also known as the steering wheel column, is a cylindrical component that connects the steering wheel to the steering gear. Its primary function is to transmit torque. When the driver turns the steering wheel, torque is transferred to the steering gear through the steering column, thereby driving the steering gear to steer the vehicle.
2. Types
Common steering column types include hydraulic power steering columns, electro-hydraulic power steering columns, and electric power steering columns. These different types of steering columns have different systems.
3. Safety Design
The safety steering column consists of an upper and lower steering shaft, connected by a releasable coupling and then connected to the rack and pinion steering gear via a flexible universal joint. This design automatically disengages the upper and lower shafts in the event of a collision, cushioning the impact and effectively protecting the driver.
