EPS AND MDPS Steering System
EPS AND MDPS Steering System
System
Rev:0 01.01.2007 2 STST-2ET6K
Index
Topics Page
EPS
Electronically Assisted Steering System 3
Entries and exits 4
Flow control type 5
Reaction type 7
Service and diagnosis 8
MDPS
Motor Driven Power Steering System 9
Entries and exits 10
Logic control 12
torque sensor 13
Service and diagnosis 14
The Electronic Power Steering System (EPS) includes the same components as a conventional
power steering system. Additionally, this has a Pressure Control Solenoid Valve, Electronically
Powered Steering Control Module (EPSCM) and an EPS Warning Light. The EPSCM controls the
solenoid which in turn controls oil flow, thus providing optimal steering characteristics under all
vehicle speed conditions.
EPS provides the following features and benefits: low steering effort when the vehicle is parking or
traveling at low speeds, steering effort is controlled according to vehicle speed, steering effort
increases linearly with respect to to the steering angle at medium and high speeds, thus offering a
stable driving sensation. The system has a fail-safe function so that the characteristics of a vehicle
with normal power steering are completely maintained. Faults in the system are indicated to the
driver by a warning light. There are two types of Electronically Powered Steering used by KIA,
referred to as the Flow or Reaction type.
The main difference (comparing the type of flow control previously described and conventional
power steering systems) is that there is another slot incorporated into the Hydraulic Control Valve
jacket. This slot allows (in conjunction with the Pressure Control Valve) to apply back pressure on
the servo cylinder while driving at high speeds, this in turn produces some resistance on the input
shaft and therefore greater effort is needed. to turn the steering wheel.
Reaction Type
Motor Powered Power Steering (MDPS) uses an electric motor to assist power steering. This is an
independent motor steering system. The MDPS, also referred to as Electric Power Steering (EPS)
operates the engine according to the steering condition, thus offering optimal steering
characteristics. The system is environmentally friendly because it does not use steering oil. Due
to its low weight and fewer components, fuel consumption is reduced. Recently, EPS-equipped
vehicles have increased and EPS is expected to replace hydraulic assist steering systems. The
EPS is divided into three types according to the location of the motor, Column type, Pinion type,
Rack type. In general, MDPS systems are composed of the following components: Control
Module, Torque Sensor, Reduction Gear, Motor, EPS Warning Light. Additionally, the Steering
Angle Sensor (SAS) signal can be used on certain models, for example cee'd (ED). For detailed
information about the principle of operation and construction of the SAS, refer to the training
material of the Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
The main inputs to the Motor Powered Power Steering Control Module (MDPSCM) are:
Battery Voltage: This input is used to monitor system voltage and alternator load in order to
increase engine idle rpm.
Vehicle Speed: The Control Module calculates the current for the motor based on the input from
the vehicle speed sensor.
Torque Sensor: Measures the torque of the torsion bar.
Engine Control Module: On some models the ECM transfers data to the MDPSCM, such as engine
speed, battery voltage and vehicle speed.
Engine speed: This signal is received by the Engine Control Module (high idle function). To
operate, the MDPSCM needs to detect an engine speed greater than 500 rpm. In certain models
the status, stop, start or operation can be observed in the current data. Additionally, this signal is
used as a backup by the MDPSCM in case of failure of the vehicle speed sensor.
Absolute Steering Position Sensor (also referred to as steering angle sensor): Due to the motor
inductance, inertia and friction resistance, the self-return of the tires to the straight-line position is
aggravated. A Steering Angle Sensor can be installed to assist in returning the steering wheel to
the straight-ahead position (restoration control). The sensor provides information about the speed
of rotation and the neutral position of the steering wheel. The amount of restoration current is
calculated by the MDPSCM based on the Steering Angle and the vehicle speed sensor signal.
Logic Control
The torque sensor is installed in the middle of the steering column and is composed of a main
sensor and a sub sensor. When the steering wheel is turned, the torsion bar twists in proportion to
the steering resistance. The configuration of the input in relation to the output of the shaft
produces a change in the magnetic field, thus causing a change in current. With the change in the
current input signal, the Motor Driven Power Steering Control Module (MDPSCM) also detects the
direction of rotation of the steering wheel.
Along with the normal diagnostic features, such as reading diagnostic codes, special functions are
available, these are:
Variant Coding:
In case of replacement of the Motor Powered Power Steering (MDPS) Control Module, variant
coding needs to be developed. This is necessary to load specific parameters such as engine type
data into the MDPSCM ROM.