Steering Actuation for Heavy Equipment with Simscape

Simscape helps you design heavy equipment. In this video, we're going to look at steering actuation systems. In our wheel loader model, the linkage has a single steering actuator which extends and contracts to articulate the chassis. The pump for the steering actuation system is connected to the power takeoff shaft, which is driven by the engine.

Hydraulic oil passes through an orbital valve on its way to the steering actuator. Pressure control valves divert flow back to the tank to prevent pressure-induced damage. The rotary valve is mechanically connected to the steering wheel and meters flow to the steering cylinder.

You can include faulty component behavior to test the robustness of your design. This hydraulic network is connected to a 3D multi-body model of the cylinder that articulates the chassis. You can download the model we have provided and test the responsiveness and efficiency of your steering system.