Modular Steering Column Assembly With Adjustable Mounting Brackets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle steering systems require unique components for each vehicle configuration, leading to increased design and engineering costs and a large number of different parts due to the need for unique steering columns and vehicle body configurations.
Innovation Solution
A modular steering column assembly that uses a uniform set of components, featuring a body with side brackets allowing translational and rotational movement, enabling the mounting of different steering columns in various vehicle configurations through a common interface system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If unique components are used for each vehicle configuration to mount steering columns, then the steering column can be properly mounted in each unique vehicle body configuration, but the number of different parts increases significantly and design and engineering costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single mounting apparatus with a body and side brackets that can accommodate multiple steering column configurations and vehicle body types. The apparatus uses standardized interfaces (first interface for steering column mounting bracket, second interface for vehicle body mounting bracket) that work across different vehicle models, eliminating the need for unique components for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating first and second side brackets coupled to either side of the body in a manner permitting translational movement of the body relative to the side brackets along a first axis and rotational movement about a second axis. This dynamic capability allows the mounting apparatus to adapt to different mounting positions and orientations without requiring multiple fixed-component designs.
2Ease of operation
If adjustment mechanisms are added to the steering column for driver preferences, then driver comfort is improved, but the overall part count and cost of the steering column assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the adjustment mechanisms directly into the mounting apparatus rather than adding separate adjustment components to the steering column itself. The body and side brackets are configured to provide translational and rotational movement capabilities that enable both height and tilt adjustments, combining multiple functions into a single integrated mounting system.
3Device complexity
If a uniform set of components is used for mounting different steering columns, then design costs and part count are reduced, but the ability to accommodate unique vehicle body configurations may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the mounting system into distinct functional components: a body with a first interface for the steering column mounting bracket, second interfaces (side brackets) for the vehicle body mounting bracket, and movement mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall versatility across different configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle steering assembly includes a steering column mounting bracket configured to support a steering column and a vehicle body mounting bracket for attachment to the vehicle body. The assembly further includes an apparatus for mounting the steering column in the vehicle. The apparatus includes a body defining a first interface configured to receive a first plurality of fasteners coupling the steering column mounting bracket to the body in a fixed position and side brackets coupled to each side of the body in a manner permitting translational movement of the body relative to the side brackets along a first axis and rotational movement of the body relative to the side brackets about a second axis. The side brackets define a second interface configured to receive a second plurality of fasteners coupling the vehicle body mounting bracket to the side brackets.