Optimal synthesis of steering mechanism using double loop four bar mechanism

ABSTRACT

The main focus of this research article is on the steering mechanism of the vehicle. To get better steering while taking turns, the fixed angular position of front wheels required for each turning radius of the vehicle. Steering mechanism required to obtain an angular relation between inner and outer front wheel of vehicle while taking turns. The function generation task considered fair to co-ordinate angular relation between front wheels for steering mechanism of the vehicle. To achieve a best approximate solution for the function generation task of the steering mechanism, double loop of four bar mechanism is considered. Double loop of the four bar mechanism configuration can tune error in two stages. The first loop of configuration will generate approximate function to correct steering and the second loop will tune function for better accuracy. Mathematical modelling considered for both loops is based on Fruedenstein’s equation. Due to double loop configuration, number of design parameters is required to find out. And the angular relation between left and right front wheel is highly nonlinear, so genetic optimisation technique is used.

KEYWORDS:

• Steering mechanism
• double loop four bar mechanism
• genetic optimisation

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Hitesh Patel

Hitesh Patel is pursuing a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the Indus University, Ahmedabad. He is currently working as a Lecturer in the Mechanical Engineering Department of the K. D. Polytechnic, Patan. His research interests include Kinematics, dynamic systems, Machine Design, vibration and optimization of mechanism.

Mitesh Mungla

Dr. Mitesh Mungla has earned a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the Nirma University, Ahmedabad. Having 17 years of experience as an Academician, He is currently working as an Associate Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department of the Indus Institute of Technology & Engineering, Indus University, Ahmedabad. His research interests include Structural Vibrations, CAD/CAM, dynamic systems, Machine Design, vibration.