Steering Column Capsule Assembly Controlled Collapse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column assemblies lack an efficient mechanism for controlled collapse during crashes, which can lead to increased driver injury due to unmanaged energy release and complex part configurations.
Innovation Solution
A support bracket assembly with a capsule assembly and energy-absorbing strap that separates upon a predetermined force, allowing for a compact and controlled collapse of the steering column, utilizing a single connector for fixation and multiple energy-absorbing parts with varying absorption rates to manage energy release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional breakaway capsule assemblies are used to secure the shroud to the vehicle body, then the connection provides rigid support during normal use, but the assembly becomes complex with multiple parts and difficult to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the capsule body and energy-absorbing strap into a single integrated capsule assembly that uses one connector for both components. This merging eliminates the need for separate connectors for each component, reducing part count and assembly complexity while maintaining the rigid connection strength during normal use and enabling controlled breakaway during crashes
2Reliability
If multiple separate connectors are used to fix the capsule body and energy-absorbing strap to the vehicle, then each component can be securely attached, but the assembly size increases and compactness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fixation functions for both the capsule body and energy-absorbing strap into a single shared connector. This single connector passes through both components and secures them to the vehicle in one operation, reducing assembly volume and improving compactness while maintaining reliable fixation for both components
3Adaptability or versatility
If the steering column assembly uses a traditional collapse mechanism, then it can break away during crashes, but the energy release is uncontrolled leading to increased driver injury risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates an energy-absorbing strap within the capsule assembly that is designed to absorb crash energy in a controlled manner. This beforehand cushioning mechanism prevents uncontrolled energy release during crashes, reducing driver injury risk while maintaining the ability of the steering column to collapse and adapt to crash conditions
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 enables a controlled and compact collapse of the steering column assembly, reducing driver injury risk by managing energy absorption through tailored energy-absorbing parts and simplifying the assembly design with fewer components.
Implementation Method 1
an energy-absorbing strap; wherein the capsule body and energy-absorbing strap are configured to be fixed to the fixed part of the vehicle. Prior to an application of a predetermined force to the support bracket, the capsule body, energy-absorbing strap, and support bracket are interconnected by a connector and further wherein, upon application of the predetermined force to the support bracket, the connector is configured to separate from the capsule body whilst continuing to interconnect the energy-absorbing strap and support bracket
Data Source
AI summary
A support bracket assembly, for fixing a shroud of a steering column assembly to a vehicle, includes: a support bracket fixable to the shroud; and a capsule assembly for interconnecting the support bracket with a fixed part of the vehicle. The capsule assembly further includes a capsule body; and an energy-absorbing strap; wherein the capsule body and energy-absorbing strap are configured to be fixed to the fixed part of the vehicle. Prior to an application of a predetermined force to the support bracket, the capsule body, energy-absorbing strap, and support bracket are interconnected by a connector and further wherein, upon application of the predetermined force to the support bracket, the connector is configured to separate from the capsule body whilst continuing to interconnect the energy-absorbing strap and support bracket.