LabVIEW controlled hydrostatic steering unit test system

Hydrostatic steering systems are widely used in agricultural and industrial machinery due to their reliability and efficiency. One of the main components of these systems is the Orbitrol unit, which converts the mechanical input from the steering wheel into hydraulic motion to enable steering. The performance validation, leakage detection, and functional testing requirements of such components necessitate the development of flexible and low-cost test solutions. The Orbitrol steering control unit is a core element of hydrostatic steering systems found in tractors, forklifts, loaders, and various heavy-duty vehicles. Such a steering system consists of an Orbitrol unit, a steering wheel, a double-acting and bidirectional hydraulic cylinder, pressure sensors, electrical and hydraulic power supply modules, and auxiliary control elements. When the steering wheel is turned, the Orbitrol converts this mechanical motion into a proportional hydraulic signal, thereby actuating the cylinder responsible for steering. This structure enables the driver to steer the vehicle with less physical effort. LabVIEW is a graphical programming platform that provides data acquisition, automation, and real-time system control for engineering applications. The main objective of this study is to design and implement a LabVIEW-based, low-cost, and portable test system capable of real-time monitoring and evaluation of Orbitrol and similar hydraulic components under various operating conditions. The proposed system architecture includes an Arduino-based data acquisition unit, pressure transducers, a double-acting cylinder, and a dual-mode hydraulic power unit that can be operated by both a hand pump and an electric motor-driven pump. The LabVIEW software ensures synchronized operation of all system components according to predefined test protocols. The system enables real-time visualization, data recording, and analytical evaluation of key parameters such as pressure response and actuator behavior. The developed test platform addresses the limitations of conventional hydraulic test benches, such as high cost, space requirements, and long setup times. Thanks to its modular and portable design, it can be used for on-site (field) testing applications. Although the system is primarily designed for the automotive sector, it also has potential applications in the validation and leakage testing of hydraulic components in the aerospace industry. Additionally, the hardware-software integration and architecture of the system provide a robust infrastructure for future test platforms and experimental setups. In conclusion, the LabVIEW-controlled test system presented in this study offers a practical and economical solution for testing Orbitrol units and other hydraulic equipment. Due to its flexibility, portability, and open-source adaptability, it can serve as an effective tool in both industrial applications and academic research.