Double Differential Steering System on a MODELCAR

Graduation project at the Palestine Polytechnic University 2012 Differential Steering (Conversional System) A conversional system that allows the driver to switch between two steering systems “Ackermann, & Differential Steering“ depending on the driver needs in turning the vehicle. The Ackermann Steering is used in the normal driving, because this system provides the advantages of flexible steering function without skidding at the road. The main job of the Differential Steering is only to let the vehicle to turn around it self “Pivot Turn“, when the driver wants to rotate the vehicle in a very small area into the opposite direction, or in a parking operation. By using double Differential with two inputs: The Drive Input, and The Steering Input, which are controlled mechanically by the engine and a differential-gears set, it can synchronize between the two systems at any time. This project was designed to be controlled mechanically to provide a clear vision about the idea, while the next step of this project would be to design an automated controlling using a hydraulics and electronics. The principle of the Differential Steering is based on the same of the Tracked Vehicles, except that the car uses wheels instead of the Tracks. By considering the friction forces and traction theory when uses the Wheels instead of Tracks, the idea could be realized on private cars. This conversional system could be applied in automobiles manufacturing without causing any unwanted problems to the vehicle functionality. In other word the Differential Steering Mechanism is only a little additional system that uses some components and control units to enhance the driving comfortability. Original video animation of the Double Differential Steering: