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This paper deals with an energy-saving electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) system using a center-closed servo valve without an accumulator. During non-steering operation, the pump and motor in this EHPS system operate at an extremely low speed with a low voltage. At neutral position in non-steering condition, the pump delivery flow leaks through the clearances in the hydraulic components, raising the pump pressure because the center-closed servo valve does not pass oil-flow. With a lower delivery flow rate, the pump pressure rises slightly and the motor current is also low, resulting in low electric energy consumption. When the steering wheel is turned, the pump and motor operate at a high speed and supply as much oil as needed to produce sufficient assist force. This EHPS system was tested on a conventional engine-driven vehicle with a front weight of 720kg and its effectiveness was revealed.

This paper deals with energy-saving and its thermal advantage in a hydraulic power steering system. Currently, hydraulic power steering systems are commonly used for passenger cars, and reduction of the driving energy of the pump under non-steering condition is important for energy-savings of the system to improve fuel economy. This paper describes a newly designed energy-saving pump and its experimental results. The energy-saving pump has lower driving torque with the advantage of lower heat generation in the power steering system. In addition, relationships between the pump driving energy and oil temperature in the system are analyzed for the basis of the mathematical model, which accurately predicts the pump driving torque.