4-Wheel Steering System Design Project
4-Wheel Steering System Design Project
On
Submitted to
MIT Art, Design & Technology University
in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
IN
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Submitted by
Group Code: ME2425MPIII-04
SAMEEP RAUT MITU22BTML0056
ADITYA UPADHYE MITU22BTML0009
MOHAMMAD KAIF MOMIN MITU22BTML0039
GOURAV MALI MITU22BTML0028
CERTIFICATE
Submitted by
is a Bonafide work carried out by them, under the supervision of Prof. Abhijeet
Chavan and it is submitted towards the partial fulfilment of the requirement of MIT
Art, Design and Technological University, Pune for the award of the Bachelor of
Technology in Mechanical Engineering.
Chairperson / Examiner
We hereby declare that the Mini project II entitled “Design and development of 4
wheel steering systems.” submitted towards the partial fulfilment of the requirement
of MIT-ADT University, Pune for the award of the Bachelor of Technology in
Mechanical Engineering is a record of bonafide work carried out by us under the
supervision of Prof. Abhijeet Chavan, Asso. Professor, Department of Mechanical
Engineering, School of Engineering and Sciences.
Sameep Raut
Aditya Upadhye
Gourav Mali
Design and Development of 4 Wheel Steering System.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Finally, a special thanks to all our classmates and friends who helped and encouraged
us to complete successfully our Mini projectwork.
Sameep Raut
(MITU22BTML0056)
Aditya Upadhye
(MITU22BTML0009)
Gourav Mali
(MITU22BTML0028)
ABSTRACT
This final report presents the process of designing and prototyping a 4-wheel steering
system for a car. The increasing demand for efficiency, speed, precision and safety in
modern day vehicles has driven the adoption of various technologies in car
manufacturing. This project aims to provide a thorough understanding of the key
components, technologies, and challenges associated with designing a 4-wheel
steering. This project had begun with understanding the steering system
fundamentally, then introducing the concept of AWS/4WS. The Applications of 4WS
are more diverse than just cars these are used in vehicles relating to Construction,
warehousing, and logistics, highlighting the potential benefits of increased steering
efficiency, enhanced safety and easier autonomous adaptability have been explored,
but for the purpose of the prototype a car model was finalised for the 4WS system.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contents
ABSTRACT iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS v
TABLE OF FIGURES vi
LIST OF TABLES vii
CHAPTER 1 1
1.1 Introduction 1
1.2 Organization of the Report 2
1.3 Closure 2
CHAPTER 2 3
2.1 Introduction 3
2.2. Literature Review 3
2.3 Identification of Gaps/Scope of Work 3
2.4 Problem Statement 4
2.5 Objectives 4
2.6 Closure 4
CHAPTER 3 5
3.1 Introduction 5
3.2 Methodology Details 5
3.3 Closure 8
CHAPTER 4 9
4.1 Introduction 9
4.2 Calculations 9
4.3 Closure 16
CHAPTER 5 17
5.1 Introduction 17
5.2 Car Chassis 17
5.3 Steering Mechanism 18
5.4 Wheels 19
5.5 ESP-WROOM-32 19
5.6 Motor 20
5.7 Battery 21
5.8 Miscellaneous 21
5.9 Closure 21
CHAPTER 6 22
6.1 Introduction 22
6.2 Design Phase 22
6.3 Closure 23
CHAPTER 7 24
7.1 Introduction 24
7.2 Results 24
7.3 Closure 27
CHAPTER 8 28
8.1 Introduction 28
8.2 Conclusion 28
8.3 Closure 28
REFERENCES 29
APPENDIX I 30
TABLE OF FIGURES
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Assumptions 11
Table 2:Outputs 11
Table 3: Dimensions 13
Table 4: Estimated Cost Sheet 30
Table 5: Project Based Outcomes 31
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction
Passive: In a passive 4WS system, the rear wheels are mechanically linked to the front
wheels. At low speeds, the rear wheels turn opposite to the front for better
maneuverability, while at higher speeds, they turn in the same direction for improved
stability. This system operates without electronic control, relying on fixed mechanical
connections between the front and rear wheels.
Active: In active 4WS, the rear wheels are independently controlled by electronic
systems, adjusting their steering angle based on vehicle speed, steering input, and
other factors. At low speeds, the rear wheels turn opposite to the front for better
maneuverability, while at high speeds, they turn in the same direction as the front
wheels for enhanced stability.
This mini project focuses on creating a fully mechanical 4-wheel steering system with
the ability to switch between in-phase and counter-phase steering modes. In-phase
mode synchronizes the rotation of the front and rear wheels in the same direction for
improved stability at higher speeds, while counter-phase mode steers the rear wheels
in the opposite direction of the front wheels, facilitating sharper turns at low speeds.
CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW
Department of Mechanical Engineering, MITSOES Pune
Design and Development of 4 Wheel Steering System.
2.1 Introduction
This chapter elucidates the complete review of the literature pertinent to the present
study. For easy understanding, the literature review has the following subsections
2.5 Objectives
● To be familiarized with fundamental knowledge of steering system.
CHAPTER 3
METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction
The path taken by the team to complete the study, analysis, design and prototyping of
4 wheel steering has been put down in this chapter.
The above flowchart in Fig. 3.1 explains the methodology for developing the
prototype of the 4WS involved several systematic phases, each critical to ensuring the
project's success. The process was structured as follows:
● Desk Research
The initial phase involved extensive desk research to gather existing knowledge and
insights about 4WS. This included reviewing existing technologies, identifying
potential challenges and solutions and feasibility of the solution to us.
● Literature Review
A comprehensive literature review was conducted to study previous research papers,
articles, and technical documents. This helped in understanding the theoretical
foundations and advancements in the field of Automobiles, Vehicle dynamics and
Steering systems.
stability, and maneuverability, and identify best practices for integrating such systems
into modern vehicles.
2. Conceptualization
● Rough Concepts
This involves brainstorming and sketching basic ideas for the miniature 4WS system.
The focus is on determining the key components, such as the steering mechanism
(e.g., mechanical linkage or actuators), wheel turns (how the front and rear wheels
will move), and the overall structure. Basic concepts will consider space constraints,
functionality, and movement of both front and rear wheels to ensure the system works
at both low and high speeds..
● Calculations
Perform essential calculations related to the steering angles, the ratio of movement
between front and rear wheels, and material failure forces. These calculations help
define the required rack and pinion measurements for the steering system and the
potential turning radius of the vehicle. Consideration of the mechanical linkages or
servos required to achieve the desired steering effect is also critical. These
calculations ensure the steering performance is functional and stable
● Results
This section contains the inferences from all the calculations performed. The results
could be segregated in a few categories, calculation for concept, calculation for design
and calculation for material selection. The titles are pretty self explanatory
[Link]
● CAD Designs
The CAD model includes dimensions of components such as the steering mechanism,
chassis, and wheels. CAD helps in refining the design, checking for potential
interferences, and ensuring the system’s feasibility before physical prototyping.
● Research presentation
Whatever inferences were obtained from the study procedures completed up until
now, are to be concluded and presented in the mini project presentation.
● Project Report
4. Fabrication
● Material Selection/Procurement
Choose materials based on the size, weight, and functionality requirements of the
prototype. For a miniature 4WS system, lightweight, durable materials such as plastic
(e.g., ABS or PLA for 3D printing) are selected. Components like gears, linkages, and
steering rods may also require specific materials for strength and precision. Materials
are sourced from suppliers based on these criteria.
● 3D Printing
Utilize 3D printing to create intricate parts of the prototype, such as wheel assemblies,
linkages, and steering components.
● Assembly
Once all components are fabricated, the assembly process involves fitting together the
3D-printed parts, motors, servos, linkages, and wheels according to the CAD design.
This stage ensures that the steering system functions as intended, with proper
alignment and movement of the front and rear wheels. Wiring and testing for the
control mechanisms (e.g., motor controls or servos) are also carried out during the
assembly phase to ensure smooth operation of the 4WS system.
5. Testing
● Motor integration
The motors responsible for steering the wheels are integrated into the prototype, and
interfacing with a control system is done using platforms like MIT App Inventor or
Blynk IoT. These platforms allow for wireless control of the motors via smartphone
or other devices, enabling real-time adjustments to the steering mechanism. The
motor control setup is tested to ensure that the input from the user interface correctly
drives the front and rear wheels based on the desired steering angle and system
response.
The steering angles of both the front and rear wheels are validated by comparing them
against a standard 2-Wheel Steering (2WS) system. The steering angles of the 4WS
system are measured and compared at various speeds and steering inputs to ensure
they align with the intended functionality, such as turning opposite at low speeds (for
better maneuverability) and in the same direction at higher speeds (for stability). The
angles are validated using a protractor or digital angle sensor, ensuring that the system
operates as expected for both the front and rear wheel
3.3 Closure
This Section Focused on the overall methodology used into materializing this project,
here the first three phases will take into effect in this semester while the fabrication
and testing phase is going to happen in the next instalment. The further section delves
more deeper into the design of the robot.
CHAPTER 4
CALCULATIONS
4.1 Introduction
The calculation of the 4-Wheel Steering (4WS) system in this project focuses on key
parameters such as the steering angles of the front and rear wheels, turning radii, and
the coordination between the front and rear systems. This includes determining the
rear-wheel steering angle based on the front wheel input to maintain vehicle stability
and manoeuvrability. Also, the geometry of the steering linkages and their effect on
the overall turning radius and stability at different speeds are considered. These
calculations ensure the system’s efficiency and form the foundation for its design and
potential application.
4.2 Calculations
Required calculations
i. Turning Radius
ii. Ackermann geometry
iii. Rack calculations
iv. Pinion Calculations
Step 1:
Step 3:
1. Wheelbase: Distance Between Front wheel centre and Rear wheel Centre
viewed from Side plane.
2. Track Width: Distance between Front wheel centre viewed from Front Plane.
3. Turning Radius: The turning radius of a vehicle refers to the smallest
circular turn that the vehicle can make. It is typically measured by the distance
from the center of the turning circle to the outer edge of the vehicle's path.
4. Steering Wheel Angle: It is the angle steered by the driver via steering wheel.
5. Wheel Steer Angle: It is the angle steered by the wheels on road.
6. Inner Wheel Steering angle: This is the angle at which the wheel on the inside
of the turn (closer to the centre of the turn) is steered.
7. Outer Wheel Steering Angle: This is the angle at which the wheel on the
outside of the turn (farther from the centre of the turn) is steered.
8. Pitch Centre Diameter: PCD is the basic parameter from which all the gear
terminology are derived.
9. Face width: Face width is the width if the tooth viewed from front plane.
10. Pressure Angle: Angle between the line of action (the direction of the force
transmitted between two meshing gear teeth) and the line tangent to the pitch
circle (the theoretical circle where two gears effectively mesh).
11. Rotational Speed Of pinion: Speed at which the pinion rotates.
12. Pinion Radius: Radius of pinion gear.
13. Rack Travel: Rack travel refers to the total distance that the steering rack (a
component in a rack-and-pinion steering system) can move from one end to
the other when turning the steering wheel.
14. Steering Ratio: It is ratio of Steering wheel angle to wheel steered angle.
15. Rack Length: Rack length refers to the total length of the steering rack in a
rack-and-pinion steering system. The rack length is the full measurement of
the rack from end to end, including the portions that extend beyond the
toothed area where the tie rods connect to the wheels.
16. Module: Ratio of PCD to Number of teeth
17. Linear travel per rotation: it describes how far the steering rack moves (side
to side) for each full rotation of the steering wheel.
Calculations:
Note: Ackerman geometry deals with inside wheel turning more angle than outside
wheel.
Table 1: Assumptions
Outside Ro 633.12 mm
turning Radius
Table 2:Outputs
WB
θ=
e
300
40=
e
300
¿> e= =357.52mm
tan tan 40
Ri=√ ❑
Ri=466.71 mm …………………………………………..(1)
Ro=633.11 mm…………………………………………..(2)
WB 300
sin sin ∅ = = =0.4738
Ro 633.11
∅ =0.4738=28.28 °
Table 3: Dimensions
β=0.3333=18.43 °
( TW −z )
δ=x sin sin ( θ+ β )− + √❑
2
( 200−100 )
δ=41.21sin sin ( 40+18 )− + √❑
2
Therefore δ= 24.64 mm
Pinion calculations:
Imagine pinion to be a circle open the circle into straight line representing the distance
travelled by rack when the pinion completes one rotation, which is the circumference
of our pinion imaginary circle(πd) From using the logic we can calculate diameter of
pinion. Therefore, we can say that rack travel; for 1° of wheel turn wheel be (δ 1),
δ 24.64
Now δ 1= = =0.6162mm
θ 40
Since our steering ration is 1:4 for (δ 1) travel in rack we need 4° rotation of (δ 1)
Arc length is S= r x w
4π
0.6162=r ×
180
r=8.825 mm
PCD of pinion=2r=2x8.825=17.65mm
PCD 18
N= = =12
m 1.5
Rack Calculations:
So therefore, Rack Travel for both sides will be = 2xδ =2x 31.32 =62.64 mm
For perfect meshing of rack with pinion module for both will be same.
m=1.5
2 ×δ 2 ×24.64
Minimum teeth required= = =10.45
π ×m π ×1.5
=11xπx1.5=49.29 mm
Note: For both side rear and front same rack and pinion will be used for the same
geometry.
Pinion calculations
Clearance = Total depth – Working depth =5.5 -5 =0.5 mm (clearance between rack
and pinion)
sin 90
Thickness of teeth=PCD ×
Tp
sin 90
Thickness of teeth=30 × =1.5 mm
12
4.3 Closure
In conclusion, the calculations for the 4-Wheel Steering (4WS) system have provided
essential insights into its design and functionality. By determining the steering angles,
turning radii, and the coordination between the front and rear wheels, the project has
laid the groundwork for the steering system. The careful consideration of steering
geometry and stability factors ensures the system's effectiveness in practical
applications. These calculations not only support the conceptual design but also
potentially highlight the benefits of 4WS in enhancing vehicle performance, setting
the stage for future development and implementation.
CHAPTER 5
COMPONENTS SELECTION
5.1 Introduction
This chapter will discuss the various hardware components that are used in the
project. It will give the team some insights on the respective technologies and variants
of the same present in the market according to the research carried out.
Specifications:-
The acrylic sheet serves as the structural base of this robot. This was the most obvious
choice because the car had to house various vital components, which would be more
complex if we could
3D-Printed parts
Shaft
It is the only point of contact between the front pinion gear and rear. It’s placed
centrally in the middle of the car, connected the front pinion to transmit rotation.
5.4 Wheels
Primary Wheels
● Diameter : 65 mm X 26 mm
● Type : Standard Diy project level wheels
● Quantity : 4
The four 65 mm diameter wheels serve as the main driving wheels of the car platform.
They are positioned in pairs on either sides of the car and are not powered by any
motor.
5.5 ESP-WROOM-32
Specifications:-
This microcomputer establishes a connection b/w phone and motor using Wi-fi and
the phone has an app installed which provides an interface for interacting with the
motor. This is placed centrally on the floor of the car.
5.6 Motor
Specification:-
● Torque: 2.5kg/cm
● Type : 180 degree operation
● Quantity : 1
The SG90 can rotate approximately 180 degrees. The SG90 Servo Motor is a flexible
and widely used component in robotics and electronics. It offers precise control over
rotational motion, making it an ideal choice for various applications. Additionally,
this compact motor rotates accurately within a specified range using pulse width
modulation (PWM) signals.
5.7 Battery
Specifications:-
● Capacity : 400-600 mAh
● Voltage : 9 V
● Quantity : 1
Function and placement
This battery powers each and every electronic component and is placed in the rear
centre of the Chassis and secured to the floor of the chassis using double sided
sticking tape.
5.8 Miscellaneous
Jumper wires : These are connected to the raspberry pi and are the primary source of
connection between the different components and The GPIO input and output ports.
Double sided tape : This regular double-sided tape was used to mount a few
components like battery and motors.
Screws : These are used wherever required to pin and lock items onto a specific
place.
5.9 Closure
An overview of all components used in this bot were given in this chapter. The
following chapter will describe the results obtained in the project work.
CHAPTER 6
DESIGN
6.1 Introduction
The design phase lays the groundwork for subsequent manufacturing and assembly
phases, ensuring that the prototype not only meets all functional requirements but also
adheres to high standards of performance and reliability. Through this structured and
meticulous design process, the foundation is set for developing a sophisticated and
fully operational.
6.3 Closure
The design phase of the 4WS concluded with the successful creation of a detailed and
comprehensive blueprint that guided the subsequent stages of development. This
phase was marked by rigorous research, careful selection of components, and drafting
of schematics, ensuring that every aspect of the steering system was thoughtfully
planned and optimized. The integration of mechanical, electrical, and software
elements was achieved with precision, establishing a robust framework for the
steering’s functionality. The completion of this phase not only provided a clear and
actionable roadmap for manufacturing and assembly but also set high standards for
performance and reliability.
CHAPTER 7
RESULTS & DISCUSSIONS
7.1 Introduction
The results section of this report presents the outcomes of the design and calculations
for the prototype model of the 4-wheel steering mechanism. This section provides a
detailed analysis of the various design parameters, including the mechanical structure,
steering geometry, and control system integration. In the following subsections, the
results of key calculations, such as steering angles, stability and control factors, are
presented and discussed, followed by a summary of the entire project work.
7.2 Results
1] Calculations:
Rack Travel=24.64 mm
2] Control
● Other GPIO pins are available for connecting additional components such as
sensors, buttons, or other control mechanisms if required for future expansion
or advanced features.
The circuit for the 4-wheel steering system integrates the following components:
● SG90 Servo Motor: This motor controls the steering mechanism by adjusting
the angle of the front and rear tyres.
● 6F22 9V Battery: Powers the servo motor and ESP-WROOM-32
microcontroller.
Wiring:
● The servo motor's control pin is connected to one of the GPIO pins on the
ESP-WROOM-32.
For further clarification, these connections can be referenced in the circuit diagram
provided above.
ii) Motor Control Using Blynk IoT App or MIT App Inventor
Control Interface:
● Widgets such as sliders or buttons can be used to control the rotation of the
SG90 servo motor.
Fig 19: Interface of Blynk IOT app Fig 20: Interface of MIT app Inventor
● Users can create a custom interface with components like sliders to send
control signals to the ESP-WROOM-32.
● It also supports the DAQ feature, where the app can display real-time data on
the motor's angle, ensuring accurate monitoring of the steering system.
7.3 Closure
In conclusion, the design and calculations for the 4-wheel steering prototype have
been successfully completed, confirming the system's feasibility. The results show
that the design meets the required performance, stability, and maneuverability
specifications. The calculations support the system's efficient operation, with steering
angles requirements within expected parameters. The prototype demonstrates the
potential for improved vehicle handling, with further testing recommended for real-
world optimization.
CHAPTER 8
CONCLUSION
8.1 Introduction
The design process focused on developing a 4-Wheel Steering (4WS) system to
enhance vehicle manoeuvrability and stability in a compact, scaled-down model. This
project involved conceptualizing the system's functionality, performing the necessary
calculations for its operation, and designing the components to optimize performance
without the need for physical prototyping.
8.2 Conclusion
In conclusion, this mini project successfully involved the calculations, design, and
conceptualization of a miniature 4-Wheel Steering (4WS) system. Through careful
analysis and design, the project demonstrated the potential benefits of 4WS in
enhancing vehicle manoeuvrability and stability, particularly in compact, scaled-down
models. The system's functionality was thoroughly conceptualized, and the necessary
calculations were made to ensure optimal performance. Although no physical
prototype was developed, the results of this design phase provide a strong foundation
for future work in 4WS systems, offering valuable insights into its feasibility and
potential applications.
8.3 Closure
In conclusion, the project provided insights into the design, fabrication, and testing of
a 4WS system, offering a foundation for further exploration and refinement. Future
improvements could focus on enhancing the scalability of the system, reducing costs,
and exploring more advanced control methods, contributing to the broader potential
applications of 4WS technology in full-scale vehicles.
REFERENCES
[1] Shreyansh Chaugule, Jotiba Avatade IRJET,Vol-10, Issue-04, 2023 "Design and
development of Ackerman Steering System for formula Student Vehicle". This
literature review paper provided with insights for calculations required for making an
FSAE Steering System.
[2] Jakub Jan Farynski, Dariusz Piotr Zardecki, Andrzej Debowski, The Archives if
Automotive Engineering Archiwum Motoryzacji, Vol-94, Issue-04, 2021 "Study of
the problem of operation of Four-Wheel-Steering Cars”. This literature review paper
provided with general manufacturing comparisions of Ackermans of 2WS and 4WS,
Control Algorithms for Active 4WS.
[3] Ahsan Salauddin and Pratik Padmesh, IRJET, Vol-09, Issue-03, 2022
"Mathematical Modeling and Design of a Rack and Pinion Steering Mechanism".
Condition for Geometrically Correct Steering, List of Cars Using 4WS.
[4] V. Arvind IJSER, Vol-4, Issue-12, 2013, "Optimizing the turning radius of a
vehicle using symmetric four wheel steering system,". Calculation of reduction in
Turning radius.
[5] Rahul G. Shete, Maneetkumar R. Dhanvijay, Sudhir Madhav Patil, IEOM Society
international, Vol-03,2022 "Modeling and Simulation of Four-Wheel Steering System
for Shorter Wheelbase Vehicle," Matlab Simulink models, Design for 4WS at college
level.
Weblinks:
[Link]
[Link]
[Link]
[Link]
APPENDIX I
Total 3500
12. Life-long learning: Recognize the need for and have the Recognize the
need for, and have the preparation and ability to engage in independent and
lifelong learning in the broadest context of technological change