Recently, Yamaha Motor Co. unveiled a new prototype of the EPS (Electric Power Steering) steering assistance system for motorcycles, which improves motorcycle stability and speed.
The newly developed EPS is a technology that fits under the Transforming Mobility emphasis area of the company’s Long-Term Vision of ART for Human Possibilities. The technology is being developed to change luxury, safety, and comfort and address social challenges addressing a Yamaha-specific approach.
Sensor technologies used in the EPS steering assistance system varies from power steering systems used in four-wheeled vehicles. Using a magnetostrictive torque sensor allows the system to serve as a steering damper and offer assisted steering, adding to the stability of a motorbike, boosting agility and decreasing rider fatigue.
Yamaha plans to implement EPS on a wide range of motorcycles to provide riders with a higher degree of racing, safety, and comfort.
The Yamaha Factory Racing Team will also participate in the All Japan Motocross Championship. The scenario chosen for real-world testing of the system is two YZ450FMs and one YZ250F with EPS. In addition, the business plans to use the massive data collected from top-level motocross sports to speed up technology development.
The technology uses a magnetostrictive torque sensor to detect torque, which has a proven track record with the company’s electrically-propelled bicycles. In addition, EPS acts as a steering damper while also providing help steering to the rider. The steering damper counteracts the outside forces supplied to the handlebars by changes in the road surface and other factors. As a result, it works best at high speeds.
Intending to install it on a range of bikes, the company developed a compact and lightweight actuator (technology that translates electric signals into physical movement).
Source: Yamaha