Steer‐by‐Wire, Potential, and Challenges

Steer-by-wire systems have a long tradition in research and development, going back to the 1950s when GM presented a Chevrolet Impala controlled by a sidestick and a second research vehicle, which was autonomously following a specially prepared highway. Nearly every vehicle manufacturer and also some suppliers carried out extensive research on steer-by-wire systems, but even today every series road vehicle has a mechanical connection between the steering control and the steering system. The basic idea regarding steer-by-wire is to replace the mechanical link between the operating device and the steering system by an electronic communication, as stated by the term wire. The key motivation can be seen in similar advantages compared to aviation, where fly-by-wire is standard on many aircrafts today, giving maximum flexibility regarding: the functional relationship between operating device and steering system with respect to vehicle dynamics, the architecture of the vehicle also aiming at advantages in production and modularity, and the design of the operating device itself and the ergonomics of the operator's working place. Depending on the specific design goals, this flexibility can be used in order to enhance functionality and performance, automation, ergonomics, safety, and production efficiency. Progress in automation and control, decreasing costs of electrical components and electronics and a strong increase in the diversification of vehicle concepts and individualization will stimulate research and development on steer-by-wire systems and their market introduction within the next 10–20 years. Keywords: steer-by-wire; drive-by-wire; steering system; functional safety; system integrity