Importance of keeping your vehicle's speedometer in good condition
The speedometer is an instrument found in most vehicles and its main function is to show the speed at which the vehicle is moving at a given moment, usually in kilometers per hour (km/h) or miles per hour (mph) depending on the region. Some cars have both measuring systems.
The speedometer is a crucial part of the dashboard, because it provides essential information to the driver about the speed at which the vehicle is moving. With this information, the driver can adjust his or her speed to comply with speed limits, drive safely and make informed decisions while traveling on the roads.
In addition, it also enables drivers to maintain a constant speed on highways or roads, which can help improve fuel efficiency and reduce the risk of fines.
How does the Speedometer work and measure?
The speedometer operates from the rotation of the vehicle's wheels. In older vehicles, a cable connects the speedometer to a gearbox which, in turn, is connected to a wheel or the vehicle's transmission.
As the vehicle moves, the wheels rotate and, through the cable, cause the speedometer to display the corresponding speed on the dashboard. In traditional speedometers their operation is controlled by a coated resistor tensioned by a set of small sprockets in the transmission system.
History
The speedometer was invented in Croatia in 1888 by Josip Belusic. It should be noted that nowadays modern speedometers are electronic. A rotation sensor, usually mounted at the rear of the transmission, produces a series of electrical pulses whose frequency corresponds to the speed and displays it on a digital display or an analog indicator.
Some vehicle modifications, such as the use of different tires, changes in wheel size or differential replacement can cause inaccuracies in the speedometer.
How many types of speedometers are there?
- According to the method of measurement
In this category, car speedometers are divided into the following classifications:
- Chronometric: Operation is based on odometer and clock readings, and calculates the distance by dividing it by the elapsed time. This method is based on the laws of physics.
- Centrifugal: As we can understand from its name, centrifugal measurement is based on the work of centrifugal force, where the regulating sleeve fixed by the spring moves sideways due to this force. The displacement distance is equal to the traffic intensity.
- Vibrating: Due to the resonance of the vibrations of the bearing or frame, a graded vibration is created equal to the number of rotations of the wheel.
- Inductive: It is based on the work of the magnetic field. Permanent magnets are used on the axle, where an eddy current is generated when the wheel rotates. A spring-loaded disk is involved in the movement, which is responsible for the correct readings of the speedometer shaft.
- Electromagnetic: The speed sensor sends signals when it moves, the number of which is equal to the number of movements of the sensor transmission.
- Electronic: Here, the mechanical part works by means of current pulses that are transmitted when the spindle rotates. The counter receives the information and determines the frequency over a fixed period of time. The data is converted to kilometers per hour and displayed on the board.
- According to the type of indicator
According to the indication, the speedometer can be divided into:
- Analog: The analog speedometer works by means of a cable that is connected to the drive shaft. As the car moves, the cable rotates and turns a magnet inside the speedometer, which in turn moves the speed indicator needle.
- Digital: Lacking mechanical connections, the digital speedometer works through sensors that detect the rotation of the wheels and convert this information into electronic data. This data is processed and displayed on a digital display, providing an accurate reading of the car's speed.
In essence, while analog speedometers represent the elegance of mechanical engineering, digital speedometers are a showcase of electronic precision, and both serve the fundamental purpose of ensuring that drivers are well informed about their speed and vehicle performance.
Variations of Speedometers
1- Mechanical speedometer: This type of speedometer uses a mechanical mechanism to measure and display the vehicle's speed. It works by means of a set of gears and cables that are connected to the transmission or wheel of the vehicle. As the vehicle moves, these gears and cables rotate and cause the speedometer needle to move and display the speed on the vehicle's dashboard. Mechanical speedometers were common on older vehicles.
A mechanical speedometer consists of the following main components:
- Vehicle gear or speed sensor.
- Flexible shaft that transmits information to the instrument panel
- The speedometer itself
- Distance traveled counter (node)
2.- Electromechanical: This type of speedometer is more popular, the essence of the work is crossed with the mechanical, but differs in the implementation of the process. Unlike the previous version, the electromechanical speedometer uses sensors such as:
- Gears with efficiency secondary shaft and left wheel drive
- Pulse sensor (Hall sensor)
- Combined sensors
- Induction sensors
The modified high-speed node uses the indication of magnetoelectric devices. For higher accuracy of the indicators, a milliammeter is used. The operation of such a system is ensured by a microcircuit that transmits signals to the electronic unit, transmitting readings to the speedometer needle.
The current intensity is directly proportional to the speed of the car, so here the speedometer shows the most reliable information.
3.- Electronic Speedometer: These speedometers use sensors and electronic circuits to measure and display the vehicle's speed. The sensors detect the speed of the wheels or transmission and send this information to a computer, which then processes the data and shows the speed on the vehicle's dashboard by means of a digital screen or a needle on a display. Electronic speedometers are more accurate and reliable than mechanical ones, and are the most common in modern vehicles.
In addition to these two main types, there are also variations in speedometer design and presentation in different vehicles and models, but most can be classified into one of two categories: mechanical or electronic.
The Importance of Keeping the Speedometer in Good Condition
The speedometer is an essential tool in any vehicle. It provides vital information about the speed at which we are traveling and helps us make safe driving decisions. Keeping it in good condition is crucial for several reasons:
Road Safety
- Respecting speed limits: An accurate speedometer allows you to know your speed at all times and avoid speeding fines.
- Accident prevention: By knowing your speed, you can adjust your driving to road conditions and avoid dangerous situations.
- Greater vehicle control: A functional speedometer helps you maintain a constant and safe speed, especially in adverse weather conditions or on curvy roads.
Vehicle Maintenance
- Indicator of general condition: A speedometer in poor condition may be a sign of other mechanical problems in the vehicle.
- Accuracy in other systems: Speedometer information is used in other vehicle systems, such as the odometer and cruise control. A faulty speedometer can affect their operation.
Comfort and Driving Experience
- More relaxed driving: Knowing your speed allows you to drive more relaxed and safer.
- Greater vehicle confidence: An accurate speedometer gives you the confidence that your vehicle is working properly.
Problems that the speedometer can cause if it is not working properly
- Erroneous readings: May indicate a higher or lower speed than the actual speed, which can lead to violations or accidents.
- Difficulty maintaining a constant speed: This can be especially dangerous on highways or roads with heavy traffic.
- Problems with other vehicle systems: As mentioned above, the speedometer is connected to other systems, so its malfunction can affect them.
In summary, keeping the speedometer in good condition is essential to ensure safe, efficient and comfortable driving. If you notice any anomaly in its operation, it is advisable to take your vehicle to a mechanic to check it.
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