Abstract

A power steering system for vehicles is disclosed using an electric servomotor. The servomotor is energized for power assist in executing turns and for reducing the drag of the servomotor during the return of the dirigible wheels to the straight ahead position. A torque transducer operatively coupled with the steering wheel shaft and the steering gear generates a torque signal corresponding to the torque applied by the driver to the steering wheel. A lost motion coupling is provided between the servomotor and the steering gear and a lost motion transducer is operatively coupled therewith to develop a signal corresponding to lost motion. The torque signal and the lost motion signal are combined differentially and the resultant signal is applied to the servo amplifier for energization of the servomotor. When the driver turns the steering wheel, the torque signal predominates and the servomotor is energized to provide power assist. When the driver releases the steering wheel, the torque signal drops to zero and the lost motion signal controls the energization of the servomotor to overcome its resistance to the return of the dirigible wheels to the straight ahead position. A second configuration provides a compact unit of cylindrical symmetry.