ABSTRACT
In recent years, new advances have been achieved in hydraulic technology in line with the improvements seen in the dynamic performance, comfort and safety of vehicles. A major factor behind these advance is the appearance of a new approach to vehicle design premised on the application of electronic control. Electronic control technology makes it possible to break through the limitations on improvements in performance and functionality achievable by rrechanical means, and thus allows dramatic advances to be obtained in overall vehicle performance. For instance, the application of electronic control to a power steering system allows the steering effort to be optimally matched to the operating conditions. An electronic automatic transmission delivers improved power performance and fuel economy while providing smooth gear changes free of shift shock. Still another new technology can be seen in the development of 4-wheel steering (4WS) systems, torque split 4WD systems and hydraulic active suspension systems based on the concept of active control over the dynamic performance of a vehicle.
