Steering Shaft Bearing Snap-Latch Mounting for Easier Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing bearings for steering spindles in motor vehicle steering columns are complex and costly to manufacture and assemble due to the requirement of precise alignment and dimensionally accurate joint surfaces for secure attachment to the jacket unit.
Innovation Solution
A bearing design featuring flexible latching elements, such as resilient latching tongues, that can be elastically moved into position for easy assembly and snap into place for secure fixation, along with a retaining collar for secure attachment, simplifying the assembly process and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the bearing is pressed into the housing unit with friction-fit fastening, then the steering spindle is supported and rotated smoothly, but the assembly process becomes complex due to precise alignment and dimensionally accurate machining requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function is segmented from the bearing body into separate positive locking elements (latching tongues) that can be independently positioned and engaged, allowing the bearing to be divided into functional modules that simplify assembly while maintaining support reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The positive locking elements are designed as flexible, elastically deformable components that can dynamically change their position during assembly - being pressed inwards during insertion and automatically snapping outwards to engage with the locking receptacles, eliminating the need for precise alignment while ensuring reliable fixation
2Reliability
If rigid positive locking elements are used for secure axial fixation, then the bearing is firmly locked to the sleeve, but the assembly process becomes more difficult due to precise positioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The locking elements change their physical state from a compressed, retracted position during assembly to an extended, engaged position during operation. This parameter change allows the elements to be easily inserted when compressed and to automatically lock when extended, providing both ease of assembly and reliable fixation without precise positioning requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible locking elements utilize their own elastic properties to automatically perform the locking action. When the bearing is inserted, the elements are compressed and then automatically spring out to engage with the locking receptacles without requiring external actuation or precise manual positioning, making the assembly process simple and reliable
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 bearing design simplifies assembly by allowing automatic positioning and secure fixation, reducing production costs and complexity while ensuring precise axial fixation, thus improving the manufacturing efficiency of the steering column.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded detent element that can be positively engaged with a corresponding, rigid positive locking receptacle of the sleeve to create a positive locking connection
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
The invention relates to a bearing (5) for a steering shaft (22) of a steering column (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising a bearing opening (53) that traverses in the axial direction and that can receive the steering shaft (22) such that it can be rotated about the longitudinal axis (23), and at least one fastening means for connection to a casing unit (3) of the steering column (1). In order to devise a bearing of this type that can be produced and mounted more easily, the fastening means has at least one interlocking element that can be moved transversely to the axial direction.