Skid steer loaders are widely used in construction, agriculture and other fields due to their flexible steering characteristics, which allow them to operate efficiently in a small space. The steering system achieves in-situ steering or small-radius turns through the speed difference between the wheels on both sides. The working principle and control performance of the steering system directly determine the maneuverability and operating accuracy of the equipment. A steering system with poor performance will lead to operational delays, inflexible steering, affect operating efficiency, and may even cause safety hazards. Therefore, in-depth understanding of the steering system principle and improvement of control performance are of great significance to improving the comprehensive competitiveness and applicability of skid steer loaders.
Skid steer loaders mainly adopt the differential steering principle of four-wheel independent drive. In traditional mechanically driven skid steer loaders, the engine power is transmitted to the front and rear axles through the transfer case, and the speed of the wheels on both sides is controlled by the clutch or brake. For example, when the left wheel is braked and the right wheel rotates normally, the loader turns left; when the wheels on both sides rotate in the opposite direction, in-situ steering can be achieved. The hydraulically driven skid steer loader is more widely used. It converts the engine mechanical energy into hydraulic energy through the hydraulic pump to drive the hydraulic motors on both sides. The hydraulic control system adjusts the flow and pressure of the hydraulic motors on both sides according to the operating instructions, thereby changing the wheel speed and achieving flexible steering. This method responds faster and has more precise control.
Optimizing the mechanical structure is the basis for improving the handling performance of the steering system. Strengthen the frame rigidity, use high-strength steel and reasonable welding process to reduce the deformation of the frame during steering and ensure the stability of the steering system. Improve the design of the suspension system, such as using adjustable shock absorbers, adjust the shock absorption damping according to different working conditions, reduce the bumps and shaking of the vehicle during steering, and improve the operating comfort and stability. At the same time, strengthen the wheel axles and bearings, select high-precision and high-load-bearing capacity components, reduce mechanical friction and wear during steering, ensure smooth steering action, and extend the service life of the equipment.
The hydraulic system is the core of the steering of the hydraulically driven skid steer loader. Improving it can significantly improve the handling performance. Upgrade the hydraulic pump and hydraulic motor, select components with larger displacement and higher efficiency, improve the response speed of the hydraulic system, and make the steering operation more sensitive. Optimize the layout of hydraulic lines, shorten the length of lines, reduce the bending angle, reduce the flow resistance of hydraulic oil, and reduce pressure loss and response delay. Introduce electro-hydraulic proportional valves or servo valves to achieve precise control of hydraulic flow and pressure. Operators can accurately adjust the wheel speed on both sides through subtle movements of the joystick, improve the accuracy and controllability of steering, and meet the steering needs in complex working environments.
The introduction of intelligent control systems is an important direction for improving the steering control performance of skid steer loaders. Install angle sensors, speed sensors and pressure sensors to monitor the steering angle, wheel speed and hydraulic system pressure of the loader in real time, and feed the data back to the controller. The controller automatically adjusts the hydraulic system parameters according to the preset program and operator instructions to achieve intelligent steering control. For example, when turning in a narrow space, the system automatically reduces the steering speed and increases the steering torque to ensure safe and accurate steering. In addition, the intelligent control system can also provide steering assistance functions, such as automatic correction of steering deviation, reduce the workload of operators, and improve work efficiency.
Good ergonomic design can effectively improve the control performance of the steering system. Improve the layout and design of the operating handle and pedal to make them conform to the principles of ergonomics, reduce the fatigue of operators and the probability of misoperation. Use shock-absorbing seats and suspended operating tables to reduce the impact of vibration on operators during steering and improve operating comfort. At the same time, optimize the display content of the instrument panel and display screen to clearly and intuitively display the working status and related parameters of the steering system, so that operators can grasp the equipment information in real time, adjust the operation in time, and improve the convenience and accuracy of steering operation.
Establish a complete steering system performance test system to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the improved steering system. By simulating steering operations under different working conditions, test indicators such as steering angle, steering speed, and steering force, and use professional instruments to measure the stability and flexibility of the vehicle. Collect operator feedback and analyze the advantages and disadvantages of the steering system in actual operations. According to the test results and feedback, continuously improve and optimize the steering system, continuously adjust the mechanical structure, hydraulic parameters and intelligent control algorithms, and ensure that the control performance of the skid steer loader steering system continues to improve to meet the diverse needs of the market and users.
