Steering column module for mounting on a steering column of a motor vehicle and method for testing a steering column module

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a steering column module for mounting on the steering column of a motor vehicle, comprising a first housing part and a second housing part. In a designated installation position of the steering column module, in which the steering column module is mounted on the steering column, the second housing part can be rotated from a starting position relative to the first housing part by at least one complete rotation in a first direction about an axis of rotation of the steering column module, as well as in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The steering column module includes an electrical cable which is coupled to both housing parts and is wound spirally around the axis of rotation within the steering column module. The invention further relates to a method for testing such a steering column module.

[0002] A steering column module of the type mentioned above is described, for example, in DE 10 2013 008 688 A1.

[0003] Document DE 10 2007 055392 discloses a steering column module for attachment to a steering column of a motor vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0004] When such a steering column module is delivered to a vehicle manufacturer, it is advisable to indicate that the two housing parts are correctly aligned relative to each other, corresponding to their intended installation position. This is because, when the two housing parts are correctly aligned, the second housing part can be rotated relative to the first from its initial position around the axis of rotation by essentially the same angle in both directions. When rotating in the first direction, the spirally wound cable unwinds a portion of the way, and when rotating the second housing part relative to the first around the axis of rotation in the second direction, the spirally wound cable continues to wind. This unwinding of the spirally arranged electrical cable (like its winding) is naturally limited.Therefore, it is important to ensure that, when delivering the steering column module, the two housing parts are in the correct alignment relative to each other, which corresponds to the alignment of the housing parts in the intended installation position.

[0005] To indicate, for example, that the two housing parts of the steering column module are correctly aligned relative to each other after manufacturing and technical inspection, or upon delivery of the inspected steering column module to the vehicle manufacturer, an adhesive seal can be affixed to the steering column module. In this case, one section of the adhesive seal is attached to the first housing part, and a second section is attached to the second housing part. The adhesive seal thus indicates the correct alignment of the housing parts.

[0006] However, it can happen that after the manufacturing and technical testing of the steering column module, and after the application of the adhesive seal, the two housing parts are separated or detached again. This also results in the adhesive seal separating into its two sections or tearing. If the two housing parts are then reconnected in a rotationally fixed manner, for example, for transporting the steering column module, the two sections of the separated adhesive seal may realign themselves to the position they were in before the seal was separated.

[0007] It can happen that the second housing part has been accidentally rotated a full turn (360°) around its axis of rotation relative to the first housing part. If such a steering column module is attached to the vehicle's steering column, the two housing parts are no longer correctly aligned relative to each other. Correct alignment allows the second housing part to be rotated relative to the first by essentially equal angles in both directions. However, if the second housing part has already been accidentally rotated a full turn relative to the first, this is no longer possible. This is disadvantageous.

[0008] Therefore, it is advisable to check the integrity of the adhesive seal before installing the steering column module, i.e., before attaching the steering column module to the steering column of the motor vehicle.

[0009] It has proven comparatively difficult to reliably and easily determine whether an adhesive seal is damaged or intact. This is especially true if the determination of the seal's integrity is to be automated, for example, by evaluating images captured by a camera.

[0010] The object of the present invention is therefore to create a steering column module of the type mentioned at the outset in which a correct alignment of the housing parts relative to each other can be determined particularly easily, and to provide a corresponding method for checking a steering column module.

[0011] This problem is solved by a steering column module with the features of claim 1 and by a method with the features of claim 10. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims and in the following description.

[0012] The steering column module according to the invention, for mounting on the steering column of a motor vehicle, comprises a first housing part and a second housing part. In a standard installation position of the steering column module, in which the steering column module is mounted on the steering column of the motor vehicle, the second housing part can be rotated from its initial position relative to the first housing part by at least one complete revolution in a first direction about an axis of rotation of the steering column module, as well as in a second direction opposite to the first direction. In other words, in the standard installation position of the steering column module, it is possible to rotate the second housing part from its initial position by at least one complete revolution in the first direction about the axis of rotation of the steering column module.In the intended installation position of the steering column module, it is also possible to rotate the second housing part from its initial position by at least one full turn in the opposite direction. An electrical cable of the steering column module is connected to both housing parts and is wound spirally around the axis of rotation within the steering column module. Furthermore, the steering column module features an adhesive seal to indicate the correct alignment of the two housing parts relative to each other, corresponding to the intended installation position. One section of the adhesive seal is attached to the first housing part, and the other section is attached to the second housing part.At least one of the two housing parts has means which, when the adhesive seal is separated into the two sub-areas, cause a free edge of one of the sub-areas of the adhesive seal to protrude radially beyond a free edge of the other sub-area of ​​the adhesive seal.

[0013] Such a protrusion or overlap of the free edge of one of the sub-areas beyond the free edge of the other sub-area makes it very easy and reliable to visually detect a separation of the adhesive seal into the two sub-areas. If such a separation of the adhesive seal is present, it can be concluded that the steering column module has been tampered with after the adhesive seal was applied to the housing parts. If such tampering of the steering column module has occurred, it can be checked whether the two housing parts are nevertheless in the correct orientation relative to each other, i.e., in the orientation that allows the second housing part to rotate around the axis of rotation by essentially equal angles, or whether this is not the case.

[0014] The correct alignment of the housing parts relative to each other can be deduced from the integrity of the adhesive seal. If the adhesive seal is torn into its two sections, the two housing parts may still be correctly aligned. However, it is also possible that the two housing parts were not realigned after the adhesive seal was torn. This latter point can be easily checked before installing the steering column module, i.e., before attaching the steering column module to the vehicle's steering column. However, such a check is only necessary if the adhesive seal is damaged or torn into its two sections. Consequently, the correct alignment of the housing parts relative to each other can be determined particularly easily by checking the integrity of the adhesive seal.

[0015] Only in the (practically rare) case of damage to the adhesive seal is it advisable to check the alignment of the housing parts. Therefore, the effort involved in such an infrequent check is minimal.

[0016] The features provided on at least one of the two housing parts ensure that any separation of the adhesive seal into its two sections is particularly easy to detect. Because the two sections are spaced apart from each other in the radial direction of the steering column module at their free edges due to the features provided on at least one of the two housing parts, such a separation of the adhesive seal into its two sections can be determined very easily and reliably.

[0017] Such a radial overhang of the free edge of one of the sub-areas beyond the free edge of the other can be easily and readily detected, particularly through automated means, for example, by analyzing an image captured by a camera. In this way, any unwanted manipulation of the steering column module, specifically any deviation of the two housing parts from their correct alignment and the intended installation position, can be readily identified.

[0018] This is based on the understanding that if, after the adhesive seal is separated, the two sections lie in the same plane without a radial distance between their free edges, detecting the torn seal, or the seal separated into its two sections, is comparatively difficult. However, the radial distance between the two free edges of the sections ensures that the torn seal, or the seal separated into its two sections, stands out with good contrast against a background behind the seal, provided by at least one of the housing parts. This facilitates the optical detection of the separation of the two seals into their respective sections.

[0019] Preferably, the means are provided by having an outer surface of one of the two housing parts project radially beyond an outer surface of the other housing part, at least in the region of one of the free edges of the adhesive seal. Thus, if there is a radial height difference between the outer surfaces of the two housing parts in the region of one of the free edges of the adhesive seal, for example, due to a step on one of the housing parts, then the division of the adhesive seal into the two sections ensures that a gap forms between the free edges of the sections in the radial direction. This is due to the inherent stiffness of the material used for the adhesive seal, which may, for example, be an adhesive film, i.e., a film coated at least partially with an adhesive.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively, the means can be provided by a ramp formed on one of the two housing parts, at least in the area of ​​the adhesive seal. In this case, one of the adhesive seal segments is in contact with the upper surface of the ramp, which is inclined relative to the axis of rotation. Such a ramp allows for a particularly effective way of straightening the segment of the adhesive seal that is connected to the inclined upper surface of the ramp. This is because, before the adhesive seal is separated or torn, it has a kink at a free end or at an edge of the ramp. This kink assists in lifting the segment of the adhesive seal radially, thus allowing the free edge of the segment connected to the upper surface of the ramp to project radially beyond the free edge of the other segment of the adhesive seal.

[0021] It may be designed so that a free end or edge of the ramp projects radially outwards beyond an edge of the other of the two housing parts. The adhesive seal can be applied particularly easily to the upper surface of such a ramp, ensuring that the respective sections of the seal are bonded to the corresponding housing parts.

[0022] Alternatively, one free end of the ramp can be closer to the axis of rotation than an edge of the other of the two housing parts. This design of the ramp is advantageous because it does not require any additional installation space in the radial direction. This is because the ramp does not project radially outwards, but rather its upper surface is inclined inwards towards the axis of rotation, causing the ramp to slope downwards towards the free end instead of rising. This is advantageous for installing the steering column module, i.e., attaching the steering column module to the vehicle's steering column. In such an installation, the available installation space is typically relatively small. Therefore, it is advantageous for this installation if the steering column module occupies as little space as possible.

[0023] Preferably, the adhesive seal has a predetermined breaking line along which it can be separated into two sections. In this case, a section adjacent to the predetermined breaking line of at least one of the sections is free of the adhesive by which the respective section of the adhesive seal is held to the corresponding housing part. This free-from-adhesive portion of the at least one section of the adhesive seal adjacent to the predetermined breaking line facilitates the radial lifting of one of the sections as a result of separating or tearing the adhesive seal along the predetermined breaking line, i.e., the radial projection of the free edge of one of the sections beyond the free edge of the other section.

[0024] If both sub-areas are free of adhesive in the section adjacent to the predetermined breaking line, this facilitates the radial projection of the free edge of one of the two sub-areas over the free edge of the other sub-area as a result of the separation of the adhesive seal in a very simple manner.

[0025] In particular, if the means formed on at least one of the two housing parts comprise the ramp, it is preferably provided that, at least on the other of the two housing parts, the section of the partial area adjacent to the predetermined breaking line is free of adhesive. This allows the partial area of ​​the adhesive seal connected to the top of the ramp to detach particularly well from the other partial area, thus causing it to protrude radially beyond the free edge of this other partial area.

[0026] Preferably, the two housing parts are rotationally fixed together in a transport state of the steering column module in which the distance between the housing parts in the direction of the axis of rotation is smaller than in the intended installation position of the steering column module. This ensures that the adhesive seal will not tear or be damaged or separated due to movement of the housing parts relative to each other.

[0027] In particular, the two housing parts can be locked together in a rotationally fixed manner when the steering column module is in transport mode. Such a locking connection allows for easy coupling of the housing parts and equally easy separation of the housing parts by releasing the corresponding locking elements formed on the housing parts.

[0028] The steering column module can include a sensor device for detecting the rotation of a steering shaft of the steering column around the axis of rotation. If the steering column module has such a sensor device, it offers extended functionality.

[0029] In particular, the sensor device can be configured to detect the torque applied to the steering shaft when a steering handle, such as a steering wheel, is turned. This information can be used, in particular, to provide motor assistance when operating the steering handle.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, the sensor device can be configured to detect a steering angle. Therefore, the steering column module can integrate the function of a torque sensor and / or a steering angle sensor. The ability to detect a steering angle is also advantageous in terms of providing extended functionality for the steering column module.

[0031] Preferably, in the transport state, a gap is formed between an end wall region of one of the two housing parts and an end wall region of the other housing part opposite this end wall region in the direction of the axis of rotation, wherein the gap is at least partially covered by the adhesive seal in the radial direction. Providing such an axial distance between the housing parts in the opposing end wall regions facilitates the movement of the free edge of one of the adhesive seal sections away from the free edge of the other section of the adhesive seal as a result of tearing or separation of the adhesive seal. This is because the edges of the two sections of the adhesive seal can move away from each other more easily in the radial direction where such an axial gap is formed.

[0032] Preferably, the gap comprises a first gap region and a second gap region. The second gap region is located closer to the axis of rotation than the first, and the gap is narrower in the second region than in the first. This ensures that the first gap region, which is wider in the direction of the axis of rotation, is only formed in the immediate vicinity of the adhesive seal. Consequently, the housing part exhibits high robustness despite the relatively wide first gap region. Such a gap configuration can be achieved, in particular, by forming or providing a step near the outer surface of one of the two housing parts.

[0033] Preferably, a surface of the adhesive seal facing a viewer has a color and / or a surface texture and / or a pattern that gives the adhesive seal better visual distinguishability from at least one of the housing parts than without the color and / or surface texture and / or pattern. This increases the detectability of damage to or separation of the adhesive seal.

[0034] For example, the surface of the adhesive seal facing the viewer, or the outer surface, can be darker than the material of at least one housing component. For instance, if a black adhesive seal is placed in front of, say, a white plastic surface of at least one housing component, the adhesive seal is particularly easy to distinguish from the housing component behind it. This applies analogously if the surface of the adhesive seal has a surface texture or pattern, such as hatching or the like.

[0035] In the inventive method for checking the integrity of the adhesive seal of a steering column module according to the invention, it is determined whether the adhesive seal is separated into its two parts. If this is the case, it can be concluded that the steering column module has been manipulated after its manufacture and after the adhesive seal was applied to the steering column module. If the check shows that the adhesive seal is intact, it can be assumed that no such manipulation has taken place.

[0036] Consequently, by checking the steering column module for the integrity of the adhesive seal, it is very easy to determine whether the two housing parts of the steering column module are arranged in the correct orientation relative to each other.

[0037] Preferably, a camera is used to determine whether the adhesive seal has separated into its two sections. This allows for a particularly simple, cost-effective, and reliable determination.

[0038] In particular, at least one image captured by the camera can be evaluated using an evaluation device. This advantageously automates the inspection of the steering column module for the integrity of the adhesive seal to a particularly high degree.

[0039] Finally, it has proven advantageous to align the camera so that one of its optical axes forms an acute angle with the axis of rotation. This alignment allows for a very good and reliable detection of the radial projection of the free edge of one section of the adhesive seal over the free edge of the other section.

[0040] The advantages and preferred embodiments described for the steering column module according to the invention also apply to the method according to the invention and vice versa.

[0041] The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as those subsequently mentioned in the figure description and / or shown in the figures alone, are not only usable in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, embodiments not explicitly shown and explained in the figures, but which can be derived and generated from the explained embodiments through separate combinations of features, are also to be considered as encompassed and disclosed by the invention. Embodiments and combinations of features that do not exhibit all the features of an originally formulated independent claim are also to be considered disclosed.Furthermore, embodiments and combinations of features, in particular those set out above, are to be considered disclosed which go beyond or deviate from the combinations of features set out in the cross-references of the claims.

[0042] Further features of the invention will become apparent from the claims, the figures, and the figure description. These include: Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a steering column module comprising two housing parts in a delivery or transport state in which the two housing parts are locked together, with an adhesive seal attached to the locked housing parts; Fig. 2 shows the steering column module according to Fig. 1 in an exploded view; Fig. 3 in a schematic sectional view and partial view of the two interlocked housing parts with an intact adhesive seal; Fig. 4 in an enlarged view showing the sections of the housing parts according to Fig. 3 , wherein the adhesive seal is separated; Fig. 5 in a greatly enlarged and schematic detail view the torn or separated adhesive seal in the area of ​​its application to the two housing parts according to Fig. 4 Fig. 6 schematically shows the adhesive seal in a top view of an adhesive-coated underside; Fig. 7 a schematic perspective view of the broken adhesive seal in the direction of a viewing axis of a Fig. 3 camera shown; and Fig. 8 in a schematic sectional view and partial view of the two housing parts in their installation position, with the adhesive seal separated into the two sub-areas.

[0043] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with identical reference symbols.

[0044] In Fig. 1 A schematic perspective view shows a steering column module 10, which can be attached to a (not shown) steering column of a motor vehicle. In this context, the steering column module 10 can, in particular, comprise a sensor device 12, shown only schematically here, which makes it possible to detect a torque applied to a (not shown) steering shaft of the steering column, and / or a steering angle, i.e., an angle by which the steering shaft is rotated about a pivot axis 14 from a straight-ahead position of the steerable wheels of the motor vehicle. The pivot axis 14 of the steering column module 10 is shown in Fig. 1 illustrated, and it essentially corresponds to a longitudinal direction of the (not shown) steering shaft of the steering column.

[0045] The steering column module 10 comprises a first, in this case essentially ring-shaped, housing part 16 and a second, in this case also essentially ring-shaped, housing part 18. Fig. 1 The steering column module 10 is shown in a transport or delivery state in which the two housing parts 16, 18 are rotationally fixedly coupled to each other. In this delivery or transport state, the two housing parts 16, 18 are locked together in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0046] In Fig. 2 The two housing parts 16 and 18 of the steering column module 10 are shown in a separated state. In the installed state of the steering column module 10, in which the steering column module 10 is attached to the steering column of the vehicle, the first housing part 16 can be fixed to a component of the steering column, for example, to a sleeve of the steering column. In contrast, the second housing part 18 is then fixed to the steering shaft, which is rotatable within the sleeve of the steering column about the axis of rotation 14. A rotational movement about the axis of rotation 14 applied to the steering shaft by means of a steering handle, such as a steering wheel, then also causes the second housing part 18 to rotate relative to the first housing part 16 about the axis of rotation 14.

[0047] From the exploded view in Fig. 2 It is evident that an electrical conductor is arranged in a spiral winding around the axis of rotation 14 in the steering column module 10. In this case, the electrical conductor is designed as a flat ribbon cable 20. In the installed position of the steering column module 10, and also in the transport or delivery state of the steering column module 10, the flat ribbon cable 20 is coupled or connected to both the first housing part 16 and the second housing part 18.

[0048] The flat ribbon cable 20 can supply electrical energy to at least one electrical device of the steering column, for example a control unit and / or an airbag device integrated into the steering handle and / or at least a control element integrated into the steering handle or the like.

[0049] In this case, the ribbon cable 20 is wound spirally and received in a receiving space of the steering column module 10, which is bounded outwards or radially by the first housing part 16. However, it is also possible in principle to accommodate the ribbon cable 20, wound spirally around the axis of rotation 14, or the windings of this ribbon cable 20, within a receiving space provided by the second housing part 18 of the steering column module 10.

[0050] The many windings of the spirally wound flat ribbon cable 20 allow the second housing part 18 to be rotated by at least one complete revolution, i.e., by at least 360°, in a first direction 22 about the axis of rotation 14 of the steering column module 10 in a designated installation position of the steering column module 10, in which the steering column module 10 is attached to the steering column of the motor vehicle. Fig. 2 as illustrated by a curved arrow. Furthermore, in this intended installation position of the steering column module 10, the second housing part 18 can also be rotated from its initial position relative to the first housing part 16 by at least one complete revolution, i.e., by at least 360°, in a second direction 24 around the axis of rotation 14 of the steering column module 10, which in Fig. 2 also illustrated by a curved arrow. The second direction 24 is shown in the diagram. Fig. 2 opposite the first direction 22.

[0051] In particular, the number of windings of the flat ribbon cable 20 in conjunction with the spiral arrangement of the flat ribbon cable 20 in the steering column module 10 allows the second housing part 18 to be rotated in the intended installation position of the steering column module 10 by an angle of rotation of approximately 600° to approximately 800° in the first direction 22 and likewise by an essentially equal angle of rotation of approximately 600° to approximately 800° in the second direction 24, while the first housing part 16 remains stationary.

[0052] During the manufacturing of the steering column module 10 and the subsequent transfer of the steering column module 10 into the transport or delivery state, which in Fig. 1 As shown, it is therefore important to ensure that the two housing parts 16, 18 are in the correct orientation relative to each other, corresponding to the intended installation position. If the two housing parts 16, 18 of the tested and approved steering column module 10 have this correct orientation relative to each other, the two housing parts 16, 18 are connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner, in this case by locking the two housing parts 16, 18 together.

[0053] A self-adhesive seal 26 is then attached to the steering column module 10 (compare Fig. 1 This is done by connecting a first sub-area 28 of the adhesive seal 26 to the first housing part 16, and a second sub-area 30 of the adhesive seal 26 to the second housing part 18 (compare Fig. 1 The adhesive seal 26 or foil seal indicates that the two housing parts 16, 18 are in the correct orientation relative to each other, corresponding to the intended installation position. This ensures that the ribbon cable 20 is also in the initial or central position, in which the second housing part 18 can be rotated relative to the first housing part 16 by approximately equal angles in the first direction 22 and in the second direction 24.

[0054] It can happen that the housing parts 16, 18, which are interlocked after the manufacture and testing of the steering column module 10, are separated again, whereby the interlocking mechanism is opened or released. This also leads to a tearing or separation of the adhesive seal 26 at a predetermined breaking line of the adhesive seal 26, which in this case is designed as a perforation line 32. It can further occur that after such a breaking or tearing or separation of the adhesive seal 26 into the sub-areas 28, 30, the two housing parts 16, 18 are again coupled or interlocked together in such a way that the sub-areas 28, 30 and the adhesive seal 26 are exactly opposite each other in the direction of the axis of rotation 14.

[0055] However, if the second housing part 18 is rotated by exactly one full turn relative to the first housing part 16 from its initial position in the first direction 22 (or in the second direction 24) before the two housing parts 16, 18 are re-engaged, the ribbon cable 20 is no longer in the desired central position, which corresponds to the correct alignment of the two housing parts 16, 18 relative to each other. The correct alignment of the two housing parts 16, 18 relative to each other is the alignment that the two housing parts 16, 18 have relative to each other in the intended installation position of the steering column module 10.If, in such a case, i.e., after the accidental rotation of the second housing part 18 by a full turn, the separation of the adhesive seal 26 is not detected and the steering column module 10 is mounted to the steering column of the motor vehicle in this state, the second housing part 18 can no longer be rotated or twisted relative to the first housing part 16 by equal angular amounts in the respective directions 22, 24.

[0056] Therefore, it is desirable that a broken adhesive seal 26, i.e., the separation of the adhesive seal 26 into the two sub-areas 28, 30, can be detected easily and reliably. This is because the torn adhesive seal 26 indicates an unintended tampering with the steering column module 10 after its inspection and sealing, i.e., after the adhesive seal 26 has been applied to the two housing parts 16, 18.

[0057] However, it proves to be comparatively difficult to do this using a camera 34 (compare Fig. 3 ) to detect damage to the adhesive seal 26. The latter can be the case in particular if the crack lines of the two halves or partial areas 28, 30 of the adhesive seal 26 are so close to each other in the radial direction that the presence of a crack or the separation of the adhesive seal 26 cannot be detected by means of the camera 34.

[0058] In the present case, however, the steering column module 10 is designed in such a way that improved detectability of a torn foil seal or adhesive seal 26 is achieved or has been achieved.

[0059] For this purpose, it is provided that in the area of ​​a possible tear in the adhesive seal 26, the contrast detectable by the camera 34 is particularly high. To achieve this, the design of the steering column module 10 ensures that along the tear line, i.e., in this case along the perforation line 32, there is a comparatively large radial distance between the sub-areas 28, 30 of the adhesive seal 26 when the adhesive seal 26 is torn.

[0060] And because the steering column module 10 shown here is designed so that if the adhesive seal 26 or foil seal is torn, the two sub-areas 28, 30 have a large distance from each other in the radial direction, a separation of the adhesive seal 26 into the two sub-areas 28, 30 and thus a possible manipulation with regard to the alignment of the two housing parts 16, 18 relative to each other can be clearly seen by means of the camera 34.

[0061] The measures described below for increasing the detectability of the torn adhesive seal 26 are based on the finding that it is difficult to detect a tear in the adhesive seal 26 when the adhesive seal 26 is bonded in a common plane across both housing parts 16, 18 or assemblies of the steering column module 10. This is because, in the case of a torn adhesive seal 26, the two opposite ends of the sub-areas 28, 30 are also located in the same plane, without the sub-areas 28, 30 having a radial distance from each other.

[0062] However, at least one of the two housing parts 16, 18 has means which, when the adhesive seal 26 is separated into the two sub-areas 28, 30, cause a free edge 36 to protrude from one of the sub-areas 28, 30, in this case, for example, sub-area 28 (compare Fig. 5 ), over a free edge 38 of the other sub-area 30.

[0063] In Fig. 5 The projection of the free edge 36 of the first sub-area 28, which is bonded to the first housing part 16, over the free edge 38 of the second sub-area 30, which is bonded to the second housing part 18, is highly schematic and greatly enlarged. In reality, this projection of the free edge 36 over the free edge 38 is comparatively small, as can be seen more clearly in the similarly schematic representation in Fig. 4 as is evident.

[0064] The corresponding means which cause this projection of the free edge 36 over the free edge 38 when the adhesive seal 26 is separated into the two sub-areas 28, 30 comprise, in the case of the Fig. 1 The steering column module 10 shown incorporates a number of measures. Firstly, a ramp 40 is formed on one of the two housing parts 16, 18, in this case on the first housing part 16, in the area of ​​the adhesive seal 26 (compare Fig. 1 und Fig. 2 ).

[0065] As can be seen in particular from a combination of Fig. 1 with Fig. 4 The first sub-area 28 of the adhesive seal 26 with a top surface 42 of the ramp 40 in the appendix is ​​shown. Furthermore, it is particularly evident from Fig. 3 and from Fig. 4 It is evident that the upper surface 42 of the ramp 40 is inclined relative to the axis of rotation 14. In the exemplary embodiment shown here, the ramp 40 is inclined relative to the axis of rotation 14 such that a free end 44 of the ramp 40 (compare Fig. 5 ) projects radially outwards over an edge 46 of the other housing part 18 (compare Fig. 5 Accordingly, an outer surface of the first housing part 16 also projects radially beyond an outer surface 48 of the second housing part 18 in the area of ​​the adhesive seal 26 (compare Fig. 4 ).

[0066] In a variant of the steering column module 10 (not shown here), the inclination of the ramp 40 can also be designed 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 part 18.

[0067] The ramp 40 ensures that a radial height difference exists between the two housing parts 16, 18 in the area of ​​the perforation line 32 of the adhesive seal 26. Furthermore, the ramp 40 advantageously ensures that the first partial section 28 of the adhesive seal 26, attached to the upper surface 42 of the ramp 40, extends at an angle that is enclosed by the surface or upper surface 42 of the ramp 40 and the axis of rotation 14 when the adhesive seal 26 is torn (compare Fig. 4 Accordingly, the vertical distance between the free edges 36, 38 and the radial distance between the two sub-areas 28, 30 are further increased. This is also due to the fact that the film 54 is coated in certain areas with an adhesive 50 (see Figure 54). Fig. 6 ) formed adhesive seals 26 or foil seals have a certain inherent stiffness, which leads to such an erection of the sub-area 28.

[0068] The lifting of the first sub-area 28 of the adhesive seal 26 at the free edge 36 of the sub-area 28 and thus the projection of the free edge 36 beyond the free edge 38 (compare Fig. 5 ) of the other sub-area 30 is preferably also supported by the fact that the adhesive seal 26 is not glued in the area of ​​the perforation line 32, i.e. the film 54 is not coated with the adhesive 50.

[0069] This is from the in Fig. 6 The top view shown of an underside of the adhesive seal 26, i.e., the side of the adhesive seal 26 facing the housing parts 16, 18, clearly shows that in each section 52 of the respective sub-area 28, 30 adjacent to the perforation line 32, a base body of the adhesive seal 26, provided here by the film 54, is free of the adhesive 50. The sections 52 of the adhesive seal 26 free of the adhesive 50 in the area of ​​the perforation line 32 are also shown in Fig. 5 to recognize.

[0070] In particular, it is advantageous if the adhesive seal 26 is located in the area of ​​the housing part 18 which is straight on the outside 48, i.e., where the second housing part 18 has the outside 48 parallel to the axis of rotation 14 (compare Fig. 4 ), is not glued or coated with adhesive 50. As seen from Fig. 5 However, as can be seen, the section 52 of the first sub-area 28 adjacent to the free edge 36 can also be free of the adhesive 50.

[0071] The improved detectability of the torn foil seal or adhesive seal 26 is further supported by the fact that a gap 60 is formed between an end wall area 56 of the second housing part 18 and an end wall area 58 of the first housing part 16 opposite this end wall area 56 in the direction of the axis of rotation 14 (compare Fig. 3 und Fig. 4 ). This gap 60 is covered in the radial direction by the adhesive seal 26.

[0072] As a synthesis of Fig. 3 und Fig. 4 As can be seen, the gap 60 has a first gap section 62 and a second gap section 64. The second gap section 64 is closer to the axis of rotation 14 than the first gap section 62. Furthermore, the gap 60 is narrower in the second gap section 64 than in the first gap section 62. The relatively large distance between the end wall sections 56, 58 in the first gap section 62 facilitates the radial movement of the partial sections 28, 30 of the torn adhesive seal 26. This also ensures better visibility of the torn foil seal or adhesive seal 26.

[0073] In Fig. 3 The figure shows how the camera 34 can be used to check the steering column module 10 for the integrity of the adhesive seal 26. The camera 34 is oriented such that an optical axis 66 of the camera 34 forms an acute angle with the axis of rotation 14. This angle is advantageously open to the same side as the angle formed by the top surface 42 of the ramp 40 and the axis of rotation 14. This allows the camera 34 to detect the separation of the adhesive seal 26 particularly well.

[0074] In Fig. 7 Figure 3 shows how the adhesive seal 26, torn at the perforation line 32, appears from the perspective of camera 34. Consequently, an image taken by camera 34, in particular by means of a Fig. 3 The evaluation device 68 shown schematically can very easily be evaluated to determine whether the adhesive seal 26 is intact or, as in Fig. 7 shown, at perforation line 32, it is separated into the two sub-areas 28, 30.

[0075] In Fig. 8 The two housing parts 16, 18 are shown schematically and in section in the intended installation position of the steering column module 10. Accordingly, the two housing parts 16, 18 are further apart in the direction of the axis of rotation 14 than in the transport or delivery condition, which is shown in Fig. 1 and in Fig. 4 as shown. Consequently, the adhesive seal 26 is also torn in this installed state of the steering column module 10.

[0076] Overall, the examples show how, for an optical inspection system using camera 34, increased detectability of a crack in the adhesive seal 26 can be achieved by increasing the radial distance between the free edges 36, 38 of the sub-areas 28, 30 of the adhesive seal 26. This also applies if the two housing parts 16, 18 are still in their transport or delivery state, in which they are rotationally fixed to each other or locked together.

[0077] Because the radial distance between the free edges 36, 38 of the sub-areas 28, 30 of the adhesive seal 26 (compare Fig. 5 ) ensures a clearly recognizable change in contour at the tear line or perforation line 32. The tear in the adhesive film or adhesive seal 26 thus stands out very clearly from the background of the underlying housing part 16 (compare Fig. 7 ).

[0078] Consequently, in the steering column module 10 shown here, a camera-based inspection for the integrity of the adhesive seal 26 can be carried out particularly easily.

Claims

1. Steering column module (10) for attachment to a steering column of a motor vehicle, having a first housing part (16) and having a second housing part (18) which, in a desired installation position of the steering column module (10), in which the steering column module is attached to the steering column, can be rotated around a rotation axis (14) of the steering column module (10) from a starting position in relation to the first housing part (16) by at least one complete revolution both in a first direction (22) and in a second direction (24) which is opposite to the first direction (22), having an electrical line (20) which is coupled to both housing parts (16, 18) and is received in the steering column module (10) in a manner wound spirally around the rotation axis (14), characterized in that the steering column module (10) has an adhesive seal (26) for identifying correct orientation, which corresponds to the desired installation position, of the two housing parts (16, 18) relative to one another, wherein a first subregion (28) of the adhesive seal (26) is connected to the first housing part (16) and a second subregion (30) of the adhesive seal (26) is connected to the second housing part (18), and wherein means (40, 60) are formed on at least one of the two housing parts (16, 18), which means cause a free edge (36) of one of the subregions (28) to protrude over a free edge (38) of the other subregion (30) in the radial direction when the adhesive seal (26) is separated into the two subregions (28, 30).

2. Steering column module (10) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the means are provided by way of an outer side of one of the two housing parts (16) protruding over an outer side (48) of the other of the two housing parts (18) in the radial direction at least in the region of one of the free edges (36) of the adhesive seal (26).

3. Steering column module (10) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the means are provided by a ramp (40) which is formed on one of the two housing parts (16) at least in the region of the adhesive seal (26), wherein one of the subregions (28) of the adhesive seal (26) is in contact with a top side (42) of the ramp (40), which top side is oriented in a manner inclined with respect to the rotation axis (14) .

4. Steering column module (10) according to Claim 3, characterized in that a free end (44) of the ramp (40) protrudes outward over an edge (46) of the other of the two housing parts (18) in the radial direction, or a free end (44) of the ramp (40) is closer to the rotation axis (14) than an edge (46) of the other of the two housing parts (18).

5. Steering column module (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the adhesive seal (26) has a predetermined breaking line (32) along which the adhesive seal (26) can be separated into the two subregions (28, 30), wherein a section (52), which adjoins the predetermined breaking line (32), of at least one of the subregions (28, 30) is free of an adhesive (50), by means of which the respective subregion (28, 30) of the adhesive seal (26) is held on the corresponding housing part (16, 18).

6. Steering column module (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the two housing parts (16, 18) are coupled to one another in a rotationally fixed manner, in particular latched to one another in a rotationally fixed manner, in a transportation state of the steering column module (10), in which a distance between the housing parts (16, 18) in the direction of the rotation axis (14) is smaller than in the desired installation position of the steering column module (10), in particular comprising a sensor device (12) for detecting rotation of a steering shaft of the steering column around the rotation axis (14).

7. Steering column module (10) according to Claim 6, characterized in that a gap (60), which is covered by the adhesive seal (26) at least in regions in the radial direction, is formed between an end wall region (56) of one of the two housing parts (18) and an end wall region (58), which is situated opposite this end wall region (56) in the direction of the rotation axis (14), of the other of the two housing parts (16) in the transportation state.

8. Steering column module (10) according to Claim 7, characterized in that the gap (60) comprises a first gap region (62) and a second gap region (64), wherein the second gap region (64) is closer to the rotation axis (14) than the first gap region (62), and wherein the gap (60) in the second gap region (64) is narrower than in the first gap region (62) .

9. Steering column module (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that a surface of the adhesive seal (26), which surface faces an observer, has a colour and / or a surface structure and / or a pattern which provide / provides the adhesive seal (26) with better visual differentiation from at least one of the housing parts (16, 18) than without the provision of the colour and / or the surface structure and / or the pattern.

10. Method for checking a steering column module (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 9 for integrity of the adhesive seal (26), in which method it is determined whether the adhesive seal (26) is separated into the two subregions (28, 30).

11. Method according to Claim 10, characterized in that a camera (34) is used for determining whether the adhesive seal (26) is separated into the two subregions (28, 30), wherein at least one image recorded by the camera (34) is evaluated, in particular by means of an evaluation device (68), for the determination.

12. Method according to Claim 11, characterized in that the camera (34) is oriented in such a way that an optical axis (66) of the camera (34) encloses an acute angle with the rotation axis (14).