The greatest advantage of ActiveSteering over steer-by-wire systems is that there is a mechanical aspect to the feedback. ActiveSteering allows for a mechanical link to the road tires while incorporating the benefits of steer-by-wire. Thereby allowing the driver to have realistic feedback on the road conditions and what the tires are doing.
The principle is simple in its execution. BMW ActiveSteering is achieved through a planetary gearbox incorporated into a split steering column. Acting through a self-inhibiting gear wheel, an electric motor assits as required in this planetary gearbox, either increasing or decreasing the steering angle of the front wheels.
BMW ActiveSteering is based on the principle of overlapping steering angles. This is done through an electromechanical adjuster that adjusts the steering angle determined by the driver. The split steering column is made up of two input and one output shaft. One incoming shaft is connected with the steering wheel, the second is driven by an electric motor via a self-inhibiting gear wheel transmission that reduces the transmission ratio. The overall steering angle is created from a combination of the drivers input on the steering wheel and the angle determined by the electric motor. The electric motor determines its angle input through a combination of sensors that determine driving condition. Finally ActiveSteering communicates with the DSC control unit through the car's on board communication network.
BMW ActiveSteering will be introduced on one of the next BMW model Series. Given the sports character of the system, it will be initially offered as an optional extra.
BMW Group Canada, based in Whitby, Ontario, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of BMW AG and is responsible for the distribution of BMW luxury performance automobiles, Sports Activity Vehicles, motorcycles, BMW Financial Services, and as of March 2002, the new MINI brand. A total network of 32 independent BMW retail centers, 16 independent BMW motorcycle retailers, and 14 MINI retailers represents the BMW Group across the country.