Locking Device Noise Reduction via Elastic Stop Contact
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices for superimposed steering systems generate noise when moving parts reach their end positions, particularly disturbing in applications like steering wheels where they are in close proximity to the user.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a reciprocally movable locking element and an elastic element that contacts a stop to limit and dampen movement, reducing noise by utilizing multiple stops and areas of the elastic element to manage the locking and release positions effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking element with compression spring is used to lock a movable component, then the locking function is achieved, but noise is generated when moving parts reach their end positions
Solution Approach 1:
An elastic element (mediator) is introduced between the locking element and the stop. This intermediary component absorbs the impact energy when the locking element reaches its end position, preventing direct mechanical impact noise while maintaining the locking function. The elastic element deforms elastically to cushion the stopping action.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element is pre-installed and positioned to contact the stop before the locking element reaches its end position. This beforehand cushioning arrangement ensures that the impact is always absorbed by the elastic element rather than occurring as a direct hard impact, thereby preventing noise generation throughout the operating cycle.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the elastic element contacts the stop to limit movement, then noise is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the restoring force to return the locking element to its initial position, and it acts as a cushioning element when contacting the stop to reduce noise. This multi-functionality avoids the need for separate components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the function of the compression spring (providing restoring force) with the function of the noise-reduction element into a single elastic element. By combining these functions into one component rather than using separate elements, the overall structural complexity is minimized while achieving both locking and noise reduction objectives.
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 significantly reduces noise generation during operation by effectively limiting and damping the movement of the locking element, enhancing the operational quietness of the locking device.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic element coupled to the locking element for moving the locking element (in particular by exerting a restoring force on the locking element)
Implementation Method 2
the elastic element being designed and coupled to the locking element in such a way that it is in contact with the stop at least in the locking position of the locking element, the stop being arranged in such a way that a movement of the locking element is limited in the locking position by the contact of the elastic element with the stop
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5D
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking device, in particular for a superposition drive of a superposition steering system, for locking a movable component, with a locking element (21) which is movable to and fro between a locking and release position and, in the locking position, interacts with the movable component (22); and an elastic element (5), which is coupled to the locking element (21), for moving the locking element (21); and at least one stop (411), wherein the locking element (21) is movable relative to the stop (411). According to the invention, the elastic element (5) is created and coupled to the locking element (21) in such a manner that said elastic element is in contact with the stop (411) at least in the locking position of the locking element (21), wherein the stop (411) is arranged in such a manner that, by contact of the elastic element (5) with the stop (411), a movement of the locking element (21) into the locking position is restricted.