Steering column module for attachment to a steering column of a motor vehicle and method for checking a steering column module

Abstract

The invention relates to a steering column module (10) for a steering column of a motor vehicle, comprising a first housing part (16) and a second housing part (18), which can be rotated relative to the first housing part (16) in opposite directions (22, 24) by at least one full revolution each from a starting position when the steering column module (10) is in a target installation position. An electrical line (20) is coupled to both housing parts (16, 18) and is received in the steering column module (10) in a helical form. An adhesive seal (26) is used to mark the correct orientation of the two housing parts (16, 18), regions (26, 28) of the adhesive seal (26) being connected to the housing parts (16, 18). A device (40) is formed on one of the two housing parts (16, 18) and, when the adhesive seal (26) is severed, causes the free edge of one region (28) to protrude in a radial direction beyond the free edge of the other region (30). The invention also relates to a method for checking the integrity of the adhesive seal (26).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a steering column module for attachment to a steering column of a motor vehicle, comprising a first housing component and a second housing component. In a desired mounting position of the steering column module, wherein the steering column module is attached to the steering column, the second housing component can rotate at least one full revolution from a starting position relative to the first housing component about a rotation axis of the steering column module in a first direction and in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The steering column module includes a wire connecting to the two housing components and received within the steering column module in a helical manner about the rotation axis. The invention also relates to a method for inspecting such a steering column module. Background Technology

[0002] For example, the type of steering column module mentioned at the beginning is described in DE102013008688A1.

[0003] For example, if such a steering column module is delivered to a motor vehicle manufacturer, it is advantageous to indicate that the two housing components are correctly oriented relative to each other, corresponding to the desired mounting position. If the two housing components are correctly oriented relative to each other, the second housing component can rotate relative to the first housing component from its initial position about a rotation axis by a rotation angle, the magnitude of which is substantially the same in the first direction and the second direction. During rotation in the first direction, the helically wound wire unwinds slightly, and as the second housing component rotates relative to the first housing component about the rotation axis in the second direction, the helically wound wire winds further. This unwinding of the helically arranged wire is naturally limited (as is the winding). Therefore, it is important to ensure that, upon delivery of the steering column module, the two housing components are correctly oriented relative to each other, corresponding to the orientation of the housing components in the desired mounting position.

[0004] To indicate, for example, after the manufacturing and technical inspection of the steering column module, or when the inspected steering column module is delivered to the vehicle manufacturer, that the two housing components are correctly oriented relative to each other, an adhesive seal can be attached to the steering column module. In this case, a first sub-region of the adhesive seal is attached to the first housing component, and a second sub-region of the adhesive seal is attached to the second housing component. The correct orientation of the housing components is then indicated by the adhesive seal.

[0005] However, it is possible that after the manufacturing and technical inspection of the steering column module, and after the adhesive seal is attached to the steering column module, the two housing components may again separate from or detach from each other. This also results in the adhesive seal separating into two sub-regions, or correspondingly tearing the adhesive seal. If the two housing components are then joined together in a rotationally fixed manner, for example for transporting the steering column module, it is possible that the two sub-regions of the separated adhesive seal may again be oriented relative to each other in the same way as before the adhesive seal was separated into two sub-regions or portions.

[0006] Furthermore, in this situation, it is possible for the second housing component to unexpectedly rotate a full revolution relative to the first housing component, that is, rotate 360° around the axis of rotation. If this steering column module is attached to or mounted on the steering column of a motor vehicle, the two housing components are no longer in the correct orientation relative to each other. Correct orientation of the housing components relative to each other allows the second housing component to rotate by substantially equal angular amounts relative to the first housing component in both directions. However, this is no longer the case if the second housing component has unexpectedly rotated a full revolution relative to the first housing component. This is disadvantageous.

[0007] Therefore, before installing the steering column module, that is, before attaching the steering column module to the steering column of a motor vehicle, it is a stopgap measure to check the integrity of the adhesive seals.

[0008] It has been proven that it is relatively difficult to reliably and easily determine the damage to or integrity of adhesive seals. This is particularly relevant in cases where the integrity of adhesive seals needs to be determined automatically, i.e., by evaluating images, for example, recorded by a camera. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a steering column module of the type described at the beginning, wherein the correct orientation of the housing components relative to each other can be determined in a particularly simple manner, and to define a corresponding method for inspecting the steering column module.

[0010] This objective is achieved by a steering column module having the features of claim 1 and a method having the features of claim 10. Advantageous improvements and developments of the invention are indicated in the dependent claims and the description below.

[0011] A steering column module for attachment to a steering column of a motor vehicle according to the invention includes a first housing component and a second housing component. In a desired mounting position of the steering column module, wherein the steering column module is attached to the steering column of the motor vehicle, the second housing component can be rotated at least one full revolution from a starting position relative to the first housing component about the axis of rotation of the steering column module in a first direction and in a second direction opposite to the first direction. In other words, in the desired mounting position of the steering column module, the second housing component can be rotated at least one full revolution from the starting position along the first direction about the axis of rotation of the steering column module. It can also be rotated at least one full revolution from the starting position along the second direction in the desired mounting position of the steering column module. Electrical wiring of the steering column module is connected to the two housing components and received within the steering column module in a helical winding manner about the axis of rotation. The steering column module also has an adhesive seal for identifying the correct orientation of the two housing components relative to each other, which corresponds to the desired mounting position. In this case, a first sub-region of the adhesive seal is connected to the first housing component, and a second sub-region of the adhesive seal is connected to the second housing component. A device is formed on at least one of the two housing components such that, when the adhesive seal is divided into two sub-regions, the device causes the free edge of one of the sub-regions of the adhesive seal to protrude radially beyond the free edge of the other sub-region of the adhesive seal.

[0012] This protrusion or overhang of the free edge of one sub-region onto the free edge of another sub-region allows for optical detection of the adhesive seal separating into two sub-regions in a very simple and reliable manner. However, if such separation of the adhesive seal occurs, it can be concluded that the steering column module was undesirably manipulated after the adhesive seal had been attached to the housing component. When such manipulation of the steering column module has occurred, it can be checked to determine whether the two housing components are still correctly oriented relative to each other, that is, in an orientation that allows the second housing component to rotate relative to the first housing component about the axis of rotation by substantially the same amount of angle, or whether this is not the case.

[0013] The correct orientation of the housing components relative to each other can be inferred from the integrity of the adhesive seal. On the other hand, if the adhesive seal is divided into two sub-regions, the two housing components can still be correctly oriented relative to each other. However, it is also possible that after the adhesive seal is torn, the two housing components do not return to their correct orientation relative to each other. And the latter can be easily determined before the steering column module is installed, that is, before the steering column module is attached to the steering column of the motor vehicle. However, this check only needs to be performed when the adhesive seal is incomplete or divided into two sub-regions. Therefore, the correct orientation of the housing components relative to each other can be determined in a particularly simple way, based on the integrity of the adhesive seal.

[0014] Furthermore, checking the orientation of housing components is only recommended in cases where the adhesive seal lacks integrity or is damaged (which rarely occurs in practice). Therefore, the workload associated with this rather rare inspection is minimal.

[0015] The device formed on at least one of the two housing components ensures that any separation of the adhesive seal into two sub-regions can be identified particularly easily. Because the device is provided on at least one of the two housing components, the two sub-regions are spaced apart from each other in the region of their free edges in the radial direction of the steering column module, thus making it very easy and reliable to determine or identify whether the adhesive seal is divided into two sub-regions in this manner.

[0016] The radial protrusion of the free edge of one sub-region relative to the free edge of another sub-region can be easily and simply determined, especially in an automated manner, i.e., by evaluating images recorded, for example, using a camera. In particular, this allows for the easy identification of undesirable manipulations of the steering column module's orientation relative to the two housing components, deviating from their correct orientation, which corresponds to the desired mounting position.

[0017] This is based on the finding that if, after the adhesive seal has been separated, the two sub-regions are in the same plane and there is no radial distance between the free edges of the sub-regions, the identification of a torn adhesive seal or an adhesive seal separated into two sub-regions can only be achieved with considerable difficulty. However, in the current case, the radial distance between the two free edges of the sub-regions ensures that the torn adhesive seal or the adhesive seal separated into two sub-regions forms a good contrast with the background located behind the adhesive seal and provided by at least one of the housing components. This facilitates the optical identification of two adhesive seals separated into two sub-regions.

[0018] Preferably, the device is provided by the outer side of one of the two housing components protruding radially beyond the outer side of the other, at least in a region of one of the free edges of the adhesive seal. Therefore, if there is a radial height difference between the outer sides of the two housing components in a region of one of the free edges of the adhesive seal, for example due to a step on one of the two housing components, then dividing the adhesive seal into two sub-regions ensures that a distance is formed radially between the free edges of the sub-regions. This is due to the inherent rigidity of the material used for the adhesive seal, which can be, for example, an adhesive film, that is, a film coated with adhesive at least in some areas.

[0019] Alternatively, the device can be provided by a ramp formed on one of the two housing components, at least in the region of the adhesive seal. In this case, one of the sub-regions of the adhesive seal contacts the top side of the ramp, which is oriented obliquely relative to the axis of rotation. This ramp can be used particularly effectively to straighten the sub-region of the adhesive seal connected to the top side of the ramp, which is oriented obliquely. This is because if the adhesive seal has not yet been separated or torn, the adhesive seal has a bend at its free end or at the edge of the ramp. This bend helps to lift the sub-region of the adhesive seal radially, thus helping the free edge of the sub-region connected to the top side of the ramp to protrude radially onto the free edge of the other sub-region of the adhesive seal.

[0020] The free end or edge of the ramp can be configured to protrude radially outward beyond the edge of the other of the two housing components. Adhesive seals can be attached particularly easily to the top side of the ramp designed in this way, so that the corresponding sub-region of the adhesive seal can be connected to the corresponding housing component.

[0021] Alternatively, the free end of the ramp can be closer to the axis of rotation than the edge of the other of the two housing components. This configuration of the ramp is advantageous because it therefore does not occupy any additional mounting space in the radial direction. This is because the ramp does not project outwards in the radial direction; instead, the top side of the ramp is oriented inwards towards the axis of rotation, thus the ramp slopes downwards towards the free end and does not rise. This is advantageous for the installation of the steering column module, that is, the attachment of the steering column module to the steering column of the motor vehicle. This is because, in this installation case, the available mounting space is typically relatively small. Therefore, for this type of installation, it is advantageous for the steering column module to occupy as little mounting space as possible.

[0022] The adhesive seal preferably has a predetermined fracture line along which it can be divided into two sub-regions. In this case, at least one segment of the sub-region adjacent to the predetermined fracture line is free of adhesive, by which the respective sub-region of the adhesive seal is held to the respective housing component. Retaining at least one segment of the adhesive seal adjacent to the predetermined fracture line without adhesive facilitates radial elevation of one of the sub-regions due to separation or tearing of the adhesive seal along the predetermined fracture line; that is, the free edge of one sub-region protrudes radially beyond the free edge of the other sub-region.

[0023] If there is no adhesive in the section where the two sub-regions are adjacent to the predetermined break line, this helps the free edge of one of the two sub-regions to protrude radially beyond the free edge of the other sub-region, due to the very simple way the adhesive seal is separated.

[0024] In particular, if the device formed on at least one of the two housing components includes a ramp, then preferably the portion of the sub-region adjacent to the predetermined break line on the other of the two housing components is at least free of adhesive. This is because the sub-region of the adhesive seal connected to the top side of the ramp can be separated from the other sub-region particularly easily, and thus protrudes radially beyond the free edge of that other sub-region.

[0025] The two housing components are preferably coupled to each other in a rotationally fixed manner in the transport state of the steering column module, wherein the distance between the housing components in the direction of the rotation axis is smaller than that in the desired installation position of the steering column module. This ensures that the adhesive seals will not be torn, damaged, or separated due to movement of the housing components relative to each other.

[0026] Specifically, in the transport state of the steering column module, the two housing components can be latched together in a rotationally fixed manner. This latching connection allows the housing components to be easily connected to each other, and also allows the housing components to be easily separated from each other by releasing the corresponding latching elements formed on the housing components.

[0027] The steering column module may include a sensor device for detecting the rotation of the steering column shaft about a rotation axis. If the steering column module has this type of sensor device, the steering column module has extended functionality.

[0028] In particular, the sensor device can be designed to detect the torque applied to the steering shaft when the steering handle (e.g., the steering wheel of the steering column) is turned. This information can be used in particular to provide motor assistance when the steering handle is operated.

[0029] Additionally or alternatively, the sensor unit can be designed to detect the steering angle. Due to the arrangement of the sensor unit, the functionality of the torque sensor and / or steering angle sensor can therefore be integrated into the steering column module. The feasibility of detecting the steering angle is also advantageous for providing expanded functionality to the steering column module.

[0030] Preferably, in the transport state, a gap is formed between the end wall region of one of the two housing components and the end wall region of the other housing component opposite to that end wall region in the direction of the axis of rotation, and this gap is covered by an adhesive seal, at least in the radial direction. Providing this axial distance between the housing components in the facing end wall regions facilitates the continued movement of the free edge of one sub-region of the adhesive seal from the free edge of the other sub-region of the adhesive seal due to tearing or separation of the adhesive seal. This is because the edges of the two sub-regions of the adhesive seal are more likely to move away from each other in the radial direction that forms this axial gap.

[0031] The gap preferably includes a first gap region and a second gap region. Here, the second gap region is closer to the axis of rotation than the first gap region, and the gap in the second gap region is narrower than the gap in the first gap region. This ensures that the wider first gap region in the direction of the axis of rotation is formed only immediately adjacent to the adhesive seal. Therefore, despite providing a relatively wide first gap region, the housing component still exhibits high robustness. This configuration of the gap can be provided, in particular, by a step formed or disposed near the outer side of one of the two housing components.

[0032] The observer-facing surface of the adhesive seal preferably has color and / or surface texture and / or pattern, which provides a better visual distinction between the adhesive seal and at least one of the housing components compared to the absence of color and / or surface texture and / or pattern. This improves the ability to identify damage or separation of the adhesive seal.

[0033] For example, the observer-facing outer surface of the adhesive seal may have a darker color than the material of at least one of the housing components. For instance, if an adhesive seal with a black surface is provided in front of, for example, a white plastic surface of at least one housing component, the adhesive seal can be visually distinguished particularly well from the housing component located behind it. This applies in a similar manner if the surface of the adhesive seal has a surface structure or pattern, such as shading.

[0034] In the method according to the invention for inspecting the integrity of the adhesive seal of the steering column module according to the invention, it is determined whether the adhesive seal is divided into two sub-regions. If this is the case, it can be concluded that the steering column module has been manipulated after manufacturing and after the adhesive seal is attached to the steering column module. If the inspection shows that the adhesive seal is intact, it can be assumed that such manipulation did not occur.

[0035] Therefore, by checking the integrity of the adhesive seals of the steering column module, it is easy to determine whether the two housing components of the steering column module are arranged in the correct orientation relative to each other.

[0036] It is preferable to use a camera to determine whether the adhesive seal is divided into two sub-regions. In this way, this determination can be made reliably and efficiently with minimal effort and cost.

[0037] In particular, at least one image recorded by the camera can be evaluated using an evaluation device for determination. Therefore, the inspection of the adhesive seal integrity of the steering column module is advantageously automated to a particularly large extent.

[0038] Finally, it has been shown that it is advantageous if the camera is oriented such that its optical axis forms an acute angle with the axis of rotation. This is because, with the camera oriented in this manner, it is very easy and reliable to detect that the free edge of one sub-region of the adhesive seal protrudes radially from the free edge of another sub-region of the adhesive seal.

[0039] The advantages and preferred embodiments described for the steering column module according to the invention are also applicable to the method according to the invention, and vice versa. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Without departing from the scope of the invention, the features and combinations of features mentioned in the above description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned and / or shown individually in the accompanying drawings, can be used not only in the correspondingly indicated combinations, but also in other combinations. Therefore, the invention is also intended to be considered to include and disclose embodiments not explicitly shown and explained in the drawings, but which can arise from the explained embodiments through individual combinations of features. Therefore, embodiments and combinations of features that do not have all the features of the initially stated independent claims should also be considered disclosed. Furthermore, embodiments and combinations of features that go beyond or deviate from the combinations of features outlined in the reverse reference of the claims, particularly those outlined above, should be considered disclosed.

[0041] Further features of the invention can be obtained from the claims, the drawings, and the description of the drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a steering column module is shown, which includes two housing components in a delivery or shipping state, wherein the two housing components are latched to each other and an adhesive seal is attached to the latched housing components.

[0043] Figure 2 It shows that according to Figure 1 Exploded view of the steering column module;

[0044] Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view and details of two housing components are shown, which are latched together and the adhesive seals are intact;

[0045] Figure 4 It shows that according to Figure 3 A magnified view of the details of the housing components, showing the adhesive seals being separated;

[0046] Figure 5 An enlarged schematic diagram showing details of a torn adhesive seal or adhesive seal where it is attached to... Figure 4 The two shell components are divided into two sub-regions.

[0047] Figure 6 A schematic plan view of the bottom side of an adhesive seal with adhesive is shown.

[0048] Figure 7 It shows in Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of a cracked adhesive seal along the observation axis of the camera shown; and

[0049] Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional view and details of two housing components in their installed position are shown, with the adhesive seal divided into two sub-regions. Detailed Implementation

[0050] In the accompanying drawings, elements that are the same or have the same function have the same reference numerals.

[0051] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a steering column module 10 is shown, which can be attached to the steering column (not shown) of a motor vehicle. In this case, the steering column module 10 may in particular include a sensor device 12, shown only schematically in this example, which enables the detection of torque and / or steering angle applied to the steering shaft (not shown) of the steering column, that is, the angle of rotation of the steering shaft about the rotation axis 14 from the straight position of the steering wheel of the motor vehicle. The rotation axis 14 of the steering column module 10 is located at... Figure 1 As shown, and substantially corresponding to the longitudinal extension direction of the steering axis (not shown) of the steering column.

[0052] The steering column module 10 includes a first housing component 16 and a second housing component 18. In this example, the first housing component 16 is basically annular, and the second housing component 18 is also basically annular in this example. Figure 1 The steering column module 10 is shown in a transport or delivery state, wherein two housing components 16, 18 are rotatably fixed to each other. In the present case, the two housing components 16, 18 are rotatably latched to each other in the delivery or transport state.

[0053] Figure 2The diagram shows the two housing components 16 and 18 of the steering column module 10 in a separated state. In the installed state of the steering column module 10, where it is attached to the steering column of a motor vehicle, the first housing component 16 can be attached to a component of the steering column, such as the steering column housing, either rotatably or permanently. Conversely, the second housing component 18 is fixed to the steering shaft, which can rotate about a rotation axis 14 within the steering column housing. Rotational movement about the rotation axis 14 applied to the steering shaft by a steering handle (e.g., a steering wheel) also causes the second housing component 18 to rotate relative to the first housing component 16 about the rotation axis 14.

[0054] Figure 2 The exploded view shows the wires arranged in a spiral wound manner around the axis of rotation 14 in the steering column module 10. In this case, the wires are designed as ribbon cables 20. The ribbon cables 20 are connected to the first housing component 16 and the second housing component 18 in the installation position of the steering column module 10 and in the transport or delivery state of the steering column module 10.

[0055] At least one electrical device in the steering column can be supplied with electrical power via a ribbon cable 20, such as a controller and / or airbag device integrated into the steering handle and / or at least one operator control element integrated into the steering handle.

[0056] In the current configuration, the ribbon cable 20 is received in a spirally wound manner in the receiving space of the steering column module 10, which is defined outward or radially by the first housing component 16. However, in principle, in the case of the steering column module 10, the ribbon cable 20 or a loop of the ribbon cable 20 spirally wound around the rotation axis 14 can also be accommodated in the receiving space provided by the second housing component 18.

[0057] Multiple turns of the spirally wound ribbon cable 20 allow the second housing component 18 to rotate at least one full revolution about the rotation axis 14 of the steering column module 10 in a first direction 22 at the desired mounting position of the steering column module 10, that is, to rotate at least 360°. Figure 2 As indicated by the curved arrow, the steering column module 10 is attached to the steering column of the motor vehicle in the desired installation position. Furthermore, in this desired installation position of the steering column module 10, the second housing component 18 can also rotate at least one full revolution away from the initial position about the rotation axis 14 of the steering column module 10 in the second direction 24 relative to the first housing component 16, that is, rotate at least 360°. This is also due to… Figure 2 The curved arrow in the image is shown. According to... Figure 2 As shown in the diagram, the second direction 24 is opposite to the first direction 22.

[0058] Specifically, the number of turns of the ribbon cable 20, along with the helical arrangement of the ribbon cable 20 in the steering column module 10, allows the second housing component 18 to rotate by approximately 600 to approximately 800 degrees in the first direction 22, and also by approximately 600 to approximately 800 degrees in the second direction 24, with the first housing component 16 remaining stationary in the desired mounting position of the steering column module 10.

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown, during the manufacture of the steering column module 10 and its subsequent movement to a transport or delivery state, efforts are made to ensure that the two housing components 16, 18 are correctly oriented relative to each other, corresponding to the desired installation position. If the two housing components 16, 18 of the steering column module 10 have been inspected and found to be correctly oriented relative to each other, the two housing components 16, 18 are connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner, in the present case by latching the two housing components 16, 18 together.

[0060] Then, the adhesive seal 26 is attached to the steering column module 10 (compare). Figure 1 This is accomplished in such a way that the first sub-region 28 of the adhesive seal 26 is connected to the first housing component 16, while the second sub-region 30 of the adhesive seal 26 is connected to the second housing component 18 (compare). Figure 1 The adhesive seal 26 or membrane seal here indicates that the two housing parts 16, 18 are correctly oriented relative to each other, corresponding to the desired installation position. This ensures that the ribbon cable 20 is also in the starting or intermediate position, where the second housing part 18 can rotate approximately the same angle relative to the first housing part 16 in the first direction 22 and the second direction 24.

[0061] It is now possible that, after the manufacture and testing of the steering column module 10, the latched housing components 16, 18 are once again separated from each other, with the latches being opened or released. This also causes the adhesive seal 26 to tear or separate along a predetermined fracture line, which in this example is designed as a perforation line 32. It is possible that, after this breakage, tearing, or separation of the adhesive seal 26 into sub-regions 28, 30, the two housing components 16, 18 are once again joined or latched together, such that the sub-regions 28, 30 of the adhesive seal 26 are positioned precisely opposite each other in the direction of the rotation axis 14.

[0062] However, if the second housing component 18 has rotated exactly one full revolution relative to the first housing component 16 in the first direction 22 (or the second direction 24) from its starting position before the two housing components 16, 18 are latched together again, the ribbon cable 20 is no longer in the desired intermediate position corresponding to the correct orientation of the two housing components 16, 18 relative to each other. The correct orientation of the two housing components 16, 18 relative to each other is the orientation of the two housing components 16, 18 relative to each other in the desired mounting position of the steering column module 10. If, in this case, that is, after the second housing component 18 has inadvertently rotated one full revolution and the separation of the adhesive seal 26 is not recognized, and the steering column module 10 is mounted on the steering column of the motor vehicle in this state, then the second housing component 18 is no longer able to rotate or turn by an equal amount of angle relative to the first housing component 16 in the corresponding directions 22, 24.

[0063] Therefore, it is desirable that the broken adhesive seal 26 can be identified in a simple and reliable manner, that is, the adhesive seal 26 is divided into two sub-regions 28, 30. This is because after the steering column module 10 has been inspected and sealed, that is, after the adhesive seal 26 has been attached to the two housing parts 16, 18, the torn adhesive seal 26 indicates unintentional manipulation of the steering column module 10.

[0064] However, it has been shown that detecting damage to the adhesive seal 26 using camera 34 is quite difficult (comparatively). Figure 3 The latter is especially true in cases where the tear lines of the two halves or sub-regions 28, 30 of the adhesive seal 26 are so close to each other in the radial direction that the presence of a tear or separation of the adhesive seal 26 cannot be detected by the camera 34.

[0065] However, under the current circumstances, the steering column module 10 is designed in such a way that the ability to identify tear film seals or adhesive seals 26 will be improved.

[0066] For this purpose, a contrast that can be identified by camera 34 is provided, which is particularly high in areas of the adhesive seal 26 where tearing is possible. To achieve this, the steering column module 10 is constructed to ensure that when the adhesive seal 26 is torn, there is a relatively large radial distance along the tear line between the sub-regions 28, 30 of the adhesive seal 26, that is, along the perforation line 32 in the current case.

[0067] Furthermore, since the steering column module 10 shown in the present case ensures that if the adhesive seal 26 or the membrane seal tears, the two sub-regions 28, 30 will be far apart from each other in the radial direction, the adhesive seal 26 can be divided into two sub-regions 28, 30, and therefore possible manipulations of the orientation of the two housing parts 16, 18 relative to each other can be easily identified by the camera 34.

[0068] The measures explained below for improving the ability to identify tears in the adhesive seal 26 are based on the finding that tears in the adhesive seal 26 are difficult to identify when the adhesive seal 26 is bonded in a common plane on the two housing parts 16, 18 or assemblies of the steering column module 10. This is because if the adhesive seal 26 is torn, then the two opposite ends of the sub-regions 28, 30 are also in the same plane, and the sub-regions 28, 30 have no radial distance from each other.

[0069] However, in this case, a device is formed on at least one of the two housing components 16, 18, such that when the adhesive seal 26 is divided into two sub-regions 28, 30, the device allows the free edge 36 of one of the sub-regions 28, 30 (in this case, for example, sub-region 28) to be free. Figure 5 )) The free edge 38 is highlighted beyond another sub-region 30.

[0070] exist Figure 5 The image shows, in a highly schematic and greatly magnified manner, the protrusion of the free edge 36 of the first sub-region 28 onto the free edge 38 of the second sub-region 30. In this example, the free edge 36 of the first sub-region 28 is adhesively bonded to the first housing component 16, and in this example, the free edge 38 of the second sub-region 30 is adhesively bonded to the second housing component 18. In fact, the protrusion of the free edge 36 onto the free edge 38 is relatively small, which can be seen from... Figure 4 The diagram in the image shows this more clearly.

[0071] When the adhesive seal 26 is divided into two sub-regions 28 and 30, the corresponding device causing the free edge 36 to protrude on the free edge 38 includes Figure 1 Several measures are shown in the steering column module 10. On one hand, a ramp 40 is formed on one of the two housing parts 16, 18, in this example on the first housing part 16, in the area of ​​the adhesive seal 26 (compare). Figure 1 and 2 ).

[0072] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown in the combination, the first sub-region 28 of the adhesive seal 26 contacts the top side 42 of the ramp 40. Furthermore, Figure 3 and Figure 4 Specifically shown is the top side 42 of the ramp 40, oriented in an inclined manner relative to the axis of rotation 14. In the configuration illustrated by way of example in the present case, the ramp 40 is inclined relative to the axis of rotation 14, such that the free end 44 of the ramp 40 (compared to) Figure 5 It protrudes outward in the radial direction beyond the edge 46 of another housing component 18 (compare). Figure 5 Therefore, the outer side of the first housing component 16 also protrudes radially beyond the outer side 48 of the second housing component 18 in the region of the adhesive seal 26 (compare). Figure 4 ).

[0073] In a variation of the steering column module 10 (not shown in this example), the ramp 40 may also be tilted such that the free end 44 of the ramp 40 is closer to the axis of rotation 14 than the edge 46 of the second housing component 18.

[0074] In the current configuration, the ramp 40 ensures a radial height difference between the two housing components 16, 18 in the region of the perforation line 32 of the adhesive seal 26. Furthermore, the ramp 40 advantageously ensures that the first sub-region 28 of the adhesive seal 26 attached to the top side 42 of the ramp 40 is continuous at an angle, which is defined by the surface or top side 42 of the ramp 40 and the axis of rotation 14 when the adhesive seal 26 is torn (compare). Figure 4 Therefore, the height distance between free edges 36 and 38, or the radial distance between the two sub-regions 28 and 30, increases again. This is also due to the formation of a film 54 in the present case, in which adhesive 50 is coated in some areas (compare). Figure 6 The adhesive seal 26 or membrane seal has a certain inherent rigidity, which leads to this straightening of the sub-region 28.

[0075] The lifting of the first sub-region 28 of the adhesive seal 26 at the free edge 36 of the sub-region 28 and thus the protrusion of the free edge 36 on the free edge 38 of the other sub-region 30 (compare) Figure 5 Preferably, it is also aided by the adhesive seal 26 being non-adhesively bonded in the area of ​​the perforation line 32, that is, the membrane 54 is not coated with adhesive 50.

[0076] This is clearly shown Figure 6 The plan view of the bottom side of the adhesive seal 26 shown is the side of the adhesive seal 26 facing the housing components 16, 18. Therefore, the main body of the adhesive seal 26 (provided in this example by the membrane 54) has no adhesive 50 in the segments 52 of the adjacent perforation lines 32 of the corresponding sub-regions 28, 30. Figure 5 The adhesive seal 26 can also be seen in the area of ​​the perforation line 32, where there is no adhesive 50 in the section 52.

[0077] In particular, it is advantageous (comparatively) that the adhesive seal 26 is not adhesively bonded or coated with adhesive 50 in the region where the outer side 48 of the housing component 18 is straight, i.e., in the region where the second housing component 18 has an outer side 48 parallel to the axis of rotation 14. Figure 4 However, as Figure 5 As shown, the segment 52 of the adjacent free edge 36 of the first sub-region 28 may also be without adhesive 50.

[0078] In this example, the end wall region 56 of the second housing component 18 and the end wall region 56 of the first housing component 16 are opposite to each other in the direction of the rotation axis 14 (compare). Figure 3 and Figure 4 The gap 60 formed between the end wall regions 58 of the seal also helps to improve the ability to identify the tear film seal or the adhesive seal 26. In the present case, the gap 60 is covered by the adhesive seal 26 in the radial direction.

[0079] from Figure 3 and Figure 4 As can be seen from the combination, in this case, gap 60 has a first gap region 62 and a second gap region 64. The second gap region 64 is closer to the axis of rotation 14 than the first gap region 62. Furthermore, gap 60 is narrower in the second gap region 64 than in the first gap region 62. In this example, providing a relatively large distance between the end wall regions 56, 58 in the first gap region 62 facilitates the movement of the sub-regions 28, 30 of the torn adhesive seal 26 away from each other in the radial direction. Furthermore, this ensures an improved ability to identify torn membrane seals or adhesive seals 26.

[0080] Figure 3 The diagram illustrates how to use the camera 34 when inspecting the integrity of the adhesive seal 26 of the steering column module 10. In this case, the camera 34 is oriented such that the optical axis 66 of the camera 34 forms an acute angle with the axis of rotation 14. In this case, this angle advantageously faces the same side as the angle enclosed by the top side 42 of the ramp 40 and the axis of rotation 14. This is because the camera 34 can detect the separation of the adhesive seal 26 particularly well.

[0081] therefore, Figure 7 This shows how the torn adhesive seal 26 at the perforation line 32 looks as viewed from the direction of observation of camera 34. Therefore, the image recorded by camera 34 can be evaluated very easily, especially by... Figure 3 The evaluation device 68, schematically shown, is used to determine whether the adhesive seal 26 is intact or not. Figure 7 As shown, the area is divided into two sub-regions 28 and 30 along the perforation line 32.

[0082] Figure 8 Details of two housing components 16, 18 located at the desired mounting position of the steering column module 10 are schematically shown. Therefore, with... Figure 1 and Figure 4 Compared to the transport or delivery state shown, the two housing components 16 and 18 are further apart in the direction of the rotation axis 14. Therefore, in the installed state of the steering column module 10, the adhesive seal 26 is also torn.

[0083] In summary, these examples demonstrate how, for an optical inspection system using camera 34, increasing the radial distance between the free edges 36, 38 of the sub-regions 28, 30 of the adhesive seal 26 can improve the ability to detect tears in the adhesive seal 26. This also applies to situations where two housing components 16, 18 are still in a shipping or delivery state, wherein the two housing components 16, 18 are connected to or latched to each other in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0084] This is because the radial distance between the free edges 36 and 38 of the sub-regions 28 and 30 of the adhesive seal 26 (comparison) Figure 5 This ensures that the contour changes along the tear line or perforation line 32 are easily identifiable. The tear in the adhesive membrane or adhesive seal 26 stands out particularly clearly from the background of the housing component 16 located behind it (compare). Figure 7 ).

[0085] Therefore, in the case of the steering column module 10 shown in the current situation, camera-based inspection of the integrity of the adhesive seal 26 can be achieved in a particularly simple manner.

Claims

1. A steering column module (10) for attachment to a steering column of a motor vehicle, the steering column module having a first housing component (16) and a second housing component (18) at a desired mounting position of the steering column module (10), wherein the steering column module is attached to the steering column, the second housing component being rotatable from a starting position relative to the first housing component (16) about a rotation axis (14) of the steering column module (10) in a first direction (22) and a second direction (24) opposite to the first direction (22), the steering column module having wires (20) connected to the two housing components (16, 18), the wires being received in the steering column module (10) in a helical manner around the rotation axis (14). Its features are, The steering column module (10) has an adhesive seal (26) for identifying the correct orientation of the two housing components (16, 18) relative to each other, corresponding to the desired mounting position. A first sub-region (28) of the adhesive seal (26) is connected to the first housing component (16), and a second sub-region (30) of the adhesive seal (26) is connected to the second housing component (18). The adhesive seal (26) has a predetermined break line (32) along which it is capable of being divided into the two sub-regions (28, 30), wherein the sub-regions ( At least one of the segments (52) adjacent to the predetermined fracture line (32) of the adhesive seal (26) is without adhesive (50), the respective sub-regions (28, 30) of the adhesive seal (26) are held on the respective housing parts (16, 18) by the adhesive, and wherein the device (40, 60) is formed on at least one of the two housing parts (16, 18), the device being formed such that when the adhesive seal (26) is divided into two sub-regions (28, 30), the free edge (36) of one sub-region (28) protrudes in the radial direction beyond the free edge (38) of the other sub-region (30).

2. The steering column module (10) according to claim 1. Its features are, The device is provided on the outside of one of the two housing components (16), the outside of which protrudes radially beyond the outside (48) of the other housing component (18) in at least one region of the free edge (36) of the adhesive seal (26).

3. The steering column module (10) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The device is provided by a ramp (40) formed on one of the two housing components (16) at least in the region of the adhesive seal (26), wherein one of the sub-regions (28) of the adhesive seal (26) contacts the top side (42) of the ramp (40), the top side being oriented in a manner inclined relative to the axis of rotation (14).

4. The steering column module (10) according to claim 3. Its features are, The free end (44) of the ramp (40) protrudes outward in the radial direction beyond the edge (46) of the other housing component (18) of the two housing components, or the free end (44) of the ramp (40) is closer to the axis of rotation (14) than the edge (46) of the other housing component (18) of the two housing components.

5. The steering column module (10) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, In the transport state of the steering column module (10), the two housing parts (16, 18) are connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner, wherein the distance between the housing parts (16, 18) in the direction of the rotation axis (14) is smaller than that in the desired installation position of the steering column module (10).

6. The steering column module (10) according to claim 5. Its features are, In the transport state, a gap (60) is formed between the end wall region (56) of one of the two housing components (18) and the end wall region (58) of the other housing component (16) opposite to the end wall region (56) in the direction of the rotation axis (14), the gap being covered by the adhesive seal (26) in at least some areas in the radial direction.

7. The steering column module (10) according to claim 6. Its features are, The gap (60) includes a first gap region (62) and a second gap region (64), wherein the second gap region (64) is closer to the axis of rotation (14) than the first gap region (62), and wherein the gap (60) is narrower in the second gap region (64) than in the first gap region (62).

8. The steering column module (10) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The observer-facing surface of the adhesive seal (26) has a color and / or surface structure and / or pattern that provides a better visual distinction between the adhesive seal (26) and at least one of the housing components (16, 18) compared to the absence of a color and / or surface structure and / or pattern.

9. The steering column module (10) according to claim 5, wherein, The two housing components (16, 18) are latched to each other in a rotationally fixed manner.

10. The steering column module (10) according to claim 5, wherein, The steering column module (10) includes a sensor device (12) for detecting the rotation of the steering column's steering shaft about the rotation axis (14).

11. A method for inspecting the integrity of an adhesive seal (26) of a steering column module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the method determines whether the adhesive seal (26) is divided into two sub-regions (28, 30).

12. The method according to claim 11, Its features are, A camera (34) is used to determine whether the adhesive seal (26) is divided into two sub-regions (28, 30), wherein at least one image recorded by the camera (34) is evaluated for the determination.

13. The method according to claim 12, Its features are, The camera (34) is oriented such that the optical axis (66) of the camera (34) forms an acute angle with the rotation axis (14).

14. The method according to claim 12, wherein, At least one image recorded by the camera (34) is evaluated by means of an evaluation device (68).

Images