Steering Column Plain Bearing With Adjustable Braking Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column designs lack a mechanism to provide a defined, uniform braking torque, resulting in an unpleasant steering feel due to excessive smoothness, which is not achievable with the current optimized low-friction mounting systems.
Innovation Solution
A plain bearing with a prestressing element that applies a controlled force to the inner ring, clamping it onto the steering spindle, thereby increasing friction and providing a noticeable counter-torque during steering, which can be adjusted to achieve desired haptic properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the inner ring is made from elastic plastic with a radial slot to reduce sliding friction, then the bearing friction is minimized and mounting is smooth, but the steering feel becomes unpleasant due to lack of resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the friction parameter from minimal (prior art) to controlled and adjustable (invention) by introducing a prestressing element that applies variable radial force. This allows the friction level to be optimized for pleasant steering feel while maintaining smooth mounting operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static low-friction mounting into a dynamic system where the prestressing element can adjust the clamping force on the inner ring. This enables variable friction characteristics that adapt to different steering conditions, providing both smooth operation and pleasant feedback.
2Force
If the bearing surfaces are designed for minimal friction, then sliding resistance is reduced, but no defined braking torque is provided to oppose steering maneuvers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the previously harmful effect of insufficient friction (lack of braking torque) into a beneficial feature by introducing controlled friction through the prestressing element. The friction that was once a limitation becomes a controllable parameter for providing pleasant steering feedback and defined braking torque.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the inner ring is clamped more firmly on the steering spindle, then friction and braking torque increase, but the bearing becomes too resistant and loses smooth operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic adjustment mechanism (prestressing element) that allows the clamping force to be optimized. This enables the system to provide sufficient braking torque while maintaining smooth operation, resolving the contradiction between these two opposing requirements.
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 allows for the optimization of steering column haptics by introducing a damping or braking action, enhancing the steering feel with adjustable friction levels, ensuring a pleasant and high-quality user experience.
Implementation Method 1
slight radial forces will act between the mutually sliding bearing surfaces on the inside of the bearing opening and the outside of the steering spindle, so as to achieve the slightest possible sliding friction
Implementation Method 2
make the inner ring from an elastic plastic
Data Source
AI summary
A plain bearing for a steering spindle of a steering column for a motor vehicle. The bearing includes an inner ring with an axially continuous bearing opening for slidably receiving the steering spindle. A prestressing element is configured to exert a prestressing force on the inner ring to clamp the inner ring on the steering spindle and thereby to assign a defined, uniform braking torque.