1 Answer
A bimetallic strip turn signal is a type of turn signal mechanism commonly used in older vehicles, especially before the advent of modern electronic signaling systems. It operates based on the principle of thermal expansion and the properties of bimetallic strips.
Here’s how it works:
In short, the bimetallic strip turn signal is a simple electromechanical device that uses heat and the bending of a bimetallic strip to create the blinking pattern of the turn signal light.
Here’s how it works:
- Bimetallic strip: This is a strip made of two different metals that have different rates of expansion when heated. One metal expands more than the other when it gets hot.
- Heating process: In the turn signal circuit, when the vehicle’s turn signal is activated, an electrical current flows through the bimetallic strip. This current heats the strip.
- Bending action: Due to the differing expansion rates of the two metals, as the strip heats up, it bends. This bending action causes the circuit to open and stop the flow of electricity.
- Turning off: When the circuit opens, the light goes off. As the strip cools down, it bends back to its original position, closing the circuit again, allowing the turn signal to blink on and off.
- Blinking rhythm: The cycle of heating, bending, cooling, and returning to its original state causes the turn signal to blink. The speed of the blinking depends on the design of the bimetallic strip and the amount of current flowing through it.
In short, the bimetallic strip turn signal is a simple electromechanical device that uses heat and the bending of a bimetallic strip to create the blinking pattern of the turn signal light.