Investigations on cornering control algorithm design and road feeling optimization for a Steer-By-Wire vehicle

To improve the handling performance of a Steer-By-Wire (SBW) vehicle, a series of cornering control algorithms are proposed in this paper. Firstly, an algorithm for enhancing the maneuvering in steady-state cornering is presented. Subjective evaluations are then carried based on a driving simulator to demonstrate its superiority against a conventional vehicle with a fixed steering ratio. On this basis, two categories of control algorithms for dynamically correcting and compensating the transient state cornering responses of vehicles are added on. Simulator tests again are conducted to make comprehensive investigations. Test results indicate that the control algorithms for transient state cornering could effectively improve the handling performances of a SBW vehicle, in terms of reducing the work load of drivers, enhancing the track-holding ability and improving steering response properties. Thirdly, optimization approaches on road feeling have been devised and simulated based on a modified steering effort preference function of Chinese drivers. Test results revealed have declared its validation.