GB774723A - Improvements in or relating to steering mechanism for road vehicles - Google Patents

Abstract

774,723. Vehicle power steering. GEMMER MANUFACTURING CO. Nov. 11, 1954, No. 32679/54. Class 79(5). A vehicle power steering system comprises a transverse hydraulic motor A having closed end tubes D secured to the vehicle frame B and a central tube C telescopically engaging the end tubes and divided into two chambers, the central tube being connected by links K to the steerable wheels M and by a drag link J to a manually operable steering mechanism controlling valves G<SP>3</SP> to pressurize the chambers. As shown a steering column I is connected through a steering gear to a drop arm I<SP>2</SP> connected by the link J to a lever H, the link J being guided for axial movement only by a bracket secured to the motor A. The chambers of the tube C are divided by a member F to which the lever H is pivoted. The tube C is moved relative to the tubes D by hydraulic pressure developed by an engine driven pump on the same shaft as the electric generator O, the pump being connected by conduits P, Q to the valves G<SP>3</SP> arranged within the member F and controlled by the lever H. The end H<SP>3</SP> of the lever H arranged within a recess F<SP>1</SP> in the member moves the valves G<SP>3</SP> relative to cylinders G<SP>2</SP> in the member F, thereby connecting one chamber to the output of the pump and the other chamber to the input of the pump and thus causing the members C, F to be moved transversely of the vehicle relative to the tubes D. In the neutral position the valves interconnect the pressure and return conduits P, Q. The tubes C, D are urged into their neutral or straight ahead positions by springs S each arranged between the closed end of the respective tube D and a shoulder of a member R adapted to abut the member F to compress the spring during steering movement.