Power Steering Column Lock with Motor-Driven Cam
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column lock mechanisms require manual operation to unlock and relock, which is inconvenient for users preferring automatic locking and unlocking.
Innovation Solution
A power release and locking adjustable steering column system that includes a motor-driven transmission and clamping system, using a threaded member and reaction cam to automatically engage and disengage a bracket, allowing the steering column to move and lock in desired positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manually operable lock mechanism is used, then the steering column can be locked in selected positions, but the operator must manually pull a lever and reposition it to unlock and relock, which is inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical lever operation with an automated motor-driven transmission system. The motor receives electrical signals to automatically rotate the threaded member, which in turn automatically moves the reaction cam to engage or disengage from the bracket, eliminating the need for manual lever pulling and repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs the locking and unlocking actions automatically based on electrical signals without requiring continuous manual intervention. The motor-driven transmission system self-regulates the engagement of the reaction cam with the bracket, allowing the steering column to be locked and unlocked automatically according to operational needs.
2Extent of automation
If a motor-driven transmission system is used, then automatic locking and unlocking is achieved, but the device complexity increases with additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The motor-driven transmission system serves multiple functions: it provides automatic locking, automatic unlocking, and positional adjustment control. The threaded member acts as both a transmission element and a positioning mechanism, while the reaction cam serves both as a locking element and a positioning reference, reducing the need for separate dedicated components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the motor, transmission, and locking mechanism into an integrated assembly. The motor drives the transmission which directly connects to the threaded member that controls the reaction cam's engagement with the bracket, combining multiple functions into a unified system that reduces overall complexity despite adding automation capability.
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 convenient automatic locking and unlocking of the steering column, improving user experience by eliminating the need for manual lever operation while maintaining secure positioning.
Implementation Method 1
A threaded member and a reaction cam are provided. The reaction cam is responsive to an input from the threaded member to selectively engage a surface of the bracket.
Implementation Method 2
A motor is coupled to the transmission. The motor is operable to drive the transmission to rotate the threaded member into a first position to unclamp the bracket
Implementation Method 3
The reaction cam is responsive to an input from the threaded member to selectively engage a surface of the bracket
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column is provided column including a bracket adapted to enable the steering column to move as desired by an operator and a clamping system adjacent to the bracket. The clamping system includes a threaded member. A threaded clamping stud extends through the bracket. The threaded clamping stud is selectively coupled to the threaded member of the clamping device. A transmission is coupled to the threaded member. A motor is coupled to the transmission. The motor is operable to drive the transmission to rotate the threaded member in a first position to unclamp the bracket to enable the steering column to move based on receipt of an input from the operator.