Conical Steering Wheel Interface for Post-Installation Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering wheel interfaces require disassembly or wheel movement for adjustment, which is inconvenient and costly, lacking an easy and economical solution for post-installation adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A steering wheel interface with a non-circular shaped spindle shaft and matching mounting portion, allowing relative rotational movement and secured by a clamping member, enabling adjustment without disassembly and featuring a gap for limited rotational adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rotationally fixed connection interface is used between steering spindle and steering wheel, then the steering wheel is securely connected to the steering column, but the steering wheel cannot be adjusted after installation without disassembly or wheel movement
Solution Approach 1:
The connection interface transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic adjustable connection. The steering wheel can be rotated relative to the steering spindle within a limited angular range while maintaining secure connection through friction between the conical clamping surfaces. The adjustment capability is enabled by the gap between the non-circular shapes allowing rotational movement, while the conical clamping portions provide frictional locking when the clamping member is engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface allows change in the rotational position parameter of the steering wheel relative to the steering spindle. The gap width is designed to permit angular movement within 5° to 15°, and the conical clamping surfaces provide frictional holding that can maintain different rotational positions. The clamping member can be engaged at different positions to lock the wheel at desired angular orientations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the steering wheel is securely clamped to prevent any movement, then connection stability is improved, but post-installation adjustment capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides dynamic adjustability while maintaining stability during normal operation. The conical clamping surfaces create a friction-based connection that is stable during steering operations but allows controlled adjustment when the clamping member is deliberately engaged or disengaged. The non-circular shapes with designed gaps enable rotational adjustment within specific angular ranges while the frictional contact provides stability when adjusted.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a non-circular shaped connection interface is used, then rotational adjustment is enabled, but the complexity of the connection interface increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection interface uses asymmetric non-circular shapes for both the steering spindle end portion and the steering wheel mounting portion. These asymmetric profiles create a gap that allows rotational movement while maintaining a compact, integrated structure. The asymmetry enables the wheel to rotate relative to the spindle within a limited angular range without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms, external tools, or additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface design allows change in the angular position parameter through the gap between non-circular shapes. The gap width is specifically designed to permit angular movement within 5° to 15°, providing adjustment capability through a simple geometric feature rather than complex mechanical components. This parameter-based adjustment maintains simplicity while enabling versatility.
4Reliability
If the clamping member is designed to provide strong frictional holding, then connection reliability is improved, but the ease of adjustment decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The frictional holding parameter can be modified by changing the normal force applied by the clamping member. During normal operation, the clamping member maintains sufficient frictional holding to prevent wheel movement. During adjustment, the clamping member can be deliberately engaged or disengaged to allow rotation. The conical clamping surfaces provide consistent frictional contact that can be controlled through the clamping member's engagement state.
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
Enables easy and economical post-installation adjustment of the steering wheel position with enhanced reliability and ease of use, allowing for quick re-adjustments without disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
a clamping member meant to press the steering spindle shaft and the steering wheel together and be frictionally fit against each other in a locked position
Data Source
AI summary
A steering wheel interface for a steering column including a steering spindle shaft, a steering wheel having a mounting portion, wherein the steering spindle shaft is meant to fit within the mounting portion allowing for, in an unlocked position, a relative rotational movement between a first positional angle and a second positional angle. A clamping member also included to press the steering spindle shaft and the steering wheel together and be frictionally fit against each other in a locked position.