The invention provides for a power steering assembly and method of
actuation for assisting a driver in moving the steerable wheels of a
vehicle. The power steering assembly includes a housing that defines a
chamber. A steering rod is disposed in the chamber and is longitudinally
moveable within the chamber. A shoulder is fixed to the steering rod and
has opposing sides. A shaft is supported by the housing and engages the
steering rod translating the rotational movement of the shaft into a
longitudinal movement of the steering rod. A first actuator and second
actuator are disposed in the chamber on opposing sides of the shoulder.
The first and second actuators each have an excitable material that is
controlled in a series of actuations to advance the actuators in a linear
movement for pushing against the shoulder to move the steering rod
longitudinally within the chamber.