Instrument Panel Frame Recessed Beam for Steering Vibration Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing instrument panel frames in vehicles are ineffective in dampening undesirable steering wheel vibrations due to design constraints such as aesthetics, manufacturing complexity, and weight considerations, which affect fuel efficiency and operator comfort.
Innovation Solution
A frame assembly with a main beam portion and supplemental beam portions, featuring a recessed central portion that encloses the steering column assembly, enhances structural rigidity and reduces vibration transmission by allowing the steering column to be positioned close to the centroid, thereby improving comfort and aesthetics while maintaining fuel efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the cross-section of the beam member is designed to be large to dampen steering wheel vibrations, then vibration dampening is improved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The beam member is divided into multiple segments including a first beam segment, a second beam segment, and a third beam segment. The first and second beam segments have larger cross-sections for vibration dampening, while the third beam segment has a smaller cross-section for aesthetic appearance. This segmentation allows different parts of the same component to serve different functions.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the beam member are given different cross-sectional sizes according to their specific functional requirements. The portions closer to the steering column assembly have larger cross-sections for vibration dampening, while the portion extending toward the instrument panel has a smaller cross-section for aesthetics. This local differentiation optimizes both vibration control and appearance.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the distance between the center of the steering wheel and the centroid of the beam member is made small to reduce vibration, then vibration dampening is improved, but the steering wheel position comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The beam member is segmented into multiple portions with different functions. The first beam segment provides structural support and vibration dampening close to the steering column, while the second and third beam segments extend outward with smaller cross-sections. This segmentation allows the steering wheel to be positioned at an ergonomic distance while the closer beam segments continue to dampen vibrations effectively.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If complex geometry is used in the beam member to accommodate steering assembly positioning, then vibration dampening and aesthetics are improved, but manufacturing complexity and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex geometry is achieved through segmentation into multiple beam segments rather than creating a single complex-shaped component. Each segment has a relatively simple cross-sectional geometry that is easy to manufacture, while the combination of segments creates the overall complex configuration needed for optimal vibration dampening and aesthetic appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple beam segments are merged together to form the complete beam member structure. This combining approach allows the structure to achieve the desired complex configuration for vibration control and aesthetics while maintaining manufacturing simplicity at the component level, as each individual segment can be manufactured using standard processes.
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments are directed to a frame assembly that includes a supplemental beam portion, and a main beam portion adjacent the supplemental beam portion. The main beam portion includes a central portion as well as left and right portions disposed at opposing sides of the central portion. The central portion defines a recessed portion that is shaped such that the left and right portions each define in aggregate a relatively larger cross-sectional area than the central portion. The recessed portion is configured to enable the central portion to be able to at least partially enclose a steering column assembly. A mounting assembly is configured to mount the steering column assembly to the main beam portion with the central portion at least partially enclosing the steering column assembly. The mounting assembly also enhances stiffness of the central portion to thereby at least partially counteract stiffness lost based on the recessed portion.