Beveled Snap Ring Structure for EPS Bearing Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electric power steering (EPS) systems face challenges in disassembling the pinion shaft assembly from the rack EPS without damaging the probe housing assembly (PHA) or requiring replacement of additional components.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle steering assembly that incorporates a beveled snap ring, which is partially disposed within a groove defined by the rack housing, allowing the snap ring to move from a first condition pressing the bearing in place to a second condition enabling the bearing to be removed without damaging other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional snap ring is used to retain the bearing in place, then the bearing is held securely, but the snap ring cannot be removed without damaging the PHA or requiring replacement of additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The snap ring is divided into two functional portions: a C-shaped body portion that retains the bearing, and a separate ear portion with a hole that engages with the groove. This segmentation allows the snap ring to be flexed and removed by manipulating the ear portion while the body portion maintains bearing retention during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap ring is designed to be flexible rather than rigid, allowing it to dynamically change shape between a compressed state (for installation and bearing retention) and an expanded state (for removal). The ear portion can be flexed to expand the snap ring, enabling it to clear the groove and bearing for removal without damage.
2Reliability
If the snap ring is positioned below the lower rotor and PHA, then the bearing is retained effectively, but there is insufficient space to remove the snap ring without damaging the PHA
Solution Approach 1:
The snap ring's removal mechanism utilizes a different spatial dimension by flexing the ear portion radially outward to expand the snap ring. This dimensional change allows the snap ring to clear the groove and bearing in a radial direction rather than requiring linear axial space, enabling removal in the constrained space below the PHA.
3Ease of repair
If the snap ring is made removable, then maintenance becomes easier, but the bearing may become loose during operation
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the snap ring have different functional qualities: the C-shaped body portion is designed for rigid bearing retention during operation, while the ear portion is designed for flexible manipulation during removal. This local differentiation of properties allows the snap ring to simultaneously provide secure retention and ease of removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The ear portion with the hole is pre-configured to engage with the groove, creating a preliminary mechanical interlock that guides the snap ring into the correct position during installation and provides a leverage point for removal. This preliminary action ensures proper positioning while enabling future removal.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle steering assembly includes a rack which is translatable and disposed within a rack housing. The vehicle steering assembly also includes a pinion shaft operatively coupled to the rack. The vehicle steering assembly further includes a bearing in contact with the pinion shaft and disposed within the rack housing. The vehicle steering assembly yet further includes a snap ring partially disposed within a groove defined by the rack housing, the snap ring in contact with the bearing in a first condition, the snap ring having an ear portion defining a hole, wherein the snap ring is moveable from the first condition to a second condition, the first condition pressing the bearing to hold the bearing in place, the second condition allowing the bearing to be removed from the rack housing.