Airbag Module Mounting Device with Resilient Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing airbag module mounting systems on steering wheels require excessive force for removal due to improper manipulation and design limitations, making the dismantling process cumbersome and potentially risky.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring at least two hooks connected to the airbag module or steering wheel, with a resilient ring held by blocking elements, allowing for reduced dismantling force by displacing the ring away from the axis of rotation, utilizing guide elements and pivot studs to facilitate easier disengagement, and a tool with a notch to assist in the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a spring is used for snap-locking the airbag module to the steering wheel, then the module can be securely retained, but the force required for releasing the module becomes excessive and manipulation becomes improper
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient ring is divided into multiple independent arms (first portions) that can be displaced separately. Each arm engages with corresponding insertion elements on the steering wheel, allowing the ring to be released in a controlled manner by displacing the second portion, which reduces the force required compared to a single monolithic spring mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of pushing the spring to release it (as in prior art), the invention inverts the action by pulling the second portion of the resilient ring away from the steering wheel axis. This inversion of the release direction allows for easier manipulation and reduces the force required, as the arms are pulled outward rather than pushed inward against resistance.
2Reliability
If the resilient ring is held close to the insertion elements, then the hooks are securely held, but the displacement required for dismantling increases the lever arm and thus the force required
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient ring is positioned in a plane that is offset from the axis of rotation of the steering wheel. The second portion of the ring extends radially outward from this axis, creating a displacement path that is perpendicular to the axis rather than parallel. This dimensional change allows the ring to be released by a small radial displacement (5-10 mm) without creating a large lever arm, as the movement is outward rather than rotational.
3Device complexity
If a small region of the spring is used for applying thrust force, then the spring mechanism is compact, but improper manipulation occurs during release
Solution Approach 1:
The second portion of the resilient ring serves multiple functions: it acts as the release element that, when pulled, displaces all the arms simultaneously; it provides a large surface area for tool engagement; and it maintains the structural integrity of the ring during both assembly and disassembly operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate release mechanisms while ensuring proper manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The second portion of the resilient ring acts as an intermediary element between the user (or tool) and the arms that engage with the steering wheel. By pulling on this second portion, the user indirectly displaces all the arms in a controlled manner, ensuring proper manipulation without needing to apply force directly to each small region of the arms individually.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution reduces the force required for dismantling to less than 100 N, making the process safer and more efficient, while preventing unintentional disengagement and facilitating assembly and disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient ring for forming elements for holding the hooks on the other of the airbag module or the steering wheel
Data Source
AI summary
A device for removably mounting an airbag module includes at least two hooks connected to one of the airbag module or the steering wheel. The hooks cooperate with insertion elements located on the other of the airbag module or the steering wheel. A resilient ring forms elements for holding the hooks in zones of interaction. The resilient ring includes:first portions that extend in the interaction zones, anda second portion. The mounting device further includes elements for guiding the resilient ring that cause displacement of the first portions out of the zones of interaction, during displacement of the second portion in a direction away from an axis of rotation of the steering wheel.