Parallel Bolt Steering Lock for Compact Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrically motorized steering-column locks have a large space requirement, making them unsuitable for installation in space-constrained areas such as the bottom portion of the steering column, especially when integrated with motorized assistance modules.
Innovation Solution
A motorized steering-column lock design where the bolt moves parallel to the steering column, utilizing a gearwheel with a cam mechanism and a shuttle system to achieve locking and unlocking, minimizing space requirements by orienting the gearwheel and bolt movement in a plane parallel to the steering column, and integrating the lock within a compact housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the steering-column lock uses a conventional gearwheel arrangement with the gearwheel rotating about a shaft parallel or perpendicular to the motor output shaft, then the locking function is achieved, but the space requirement becomes too great for constrained installations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reorients the bolt movement from a conventional perpendicular approach to the steering column to a parallel approach. The bolt is mounted to approach the steering column in a direction parallel to the steering column axis, utilizing the longitudinal space within the steering column housing rather than radial space, thereby significantly reducing the overall volume required for the steering lock assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The steering lock assembly is designed to be nested within the steering column housing, with the motor, gearwheel, and bolt mechanism arranged in a compact configuration that fits within the existing structural envelope of the steering column, particularly utilizing the bottom portion space
2Adaptability or versatility
If the steering lock is installed in the bottom portion of the steering column close to or incorporated into a motorized assistance module, then space constraints are addressed, but the available space is extremely limited
Solution Approach 1:
By changing the bolt movement direction to parallel with the steering column axis, the design exploits the longitudinal dimension of the available space in the bottom portion of the steering column, allowing the mechanism to fit within the restricted radial envelope while maintaining full locking functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The steering lock is designed to be integrated with or adjacent to the motorized assistance module, sharing the same housing space and utilizing the same mounting structure, thereby serving multiple functions within a single integrated assembly and maximizing space utilization
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 design allows for a significantly reduced space requirement, particularly in radial directions, enabling the lock to be effectively housed in restricted spaces while maintaining functionality within motorized assistance modules, enhancing safety by positioning the lock in an inaccessible area.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor for driving the bolt between the unlocked position and the locked position
Implementation Method 2
a gearwheel which drives a locking bolt via a cam or a gradient associated with the gearwheel
Data Source
AI summary
A motorized steering-column lock for a steering column of a motor vehicle, the lock includes a bolt configured to move between a locked position and an unlocked position of a steering column and an electric motor for driving the bolt between the unlocked position and the locked position. The bolt is mounted to be movable in a direction parallel to the steering column.