Steering Column Energy Absorber with Movable Connecting Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy absorption systems in vehicle steering columns are inadequate in effectively dissipating energy during impacts, potentially leading to driver injury, as they often rely on a single metal strap and anvil mechanism that may not adequately manage varying forces in crash scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A steering column assembly with a movable connecting device that can switch between locked and unlocked configurations, incorporating multiple energy absorbers between the steering column, connecting device, and vehicle to selectively dissipate energy based on relative movement, enhancing energy dissipation during impacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single metal strap and anvil mechanism is used for energy absorption, then the device complexity is reduced, but the energy dissipation effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption system is divided into multiple independent energy absorbers (first energy absorber between connecting device and steering column assembly, second energy absorber between steering column and vehicle, third energy absorber between connecting device and vehicle). Each energy absorber handles specific portions of impact energy, distributing the energy dissipation function across multiple components rather than relying on a single mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting device can change its state between locked and unlocked configurations, altering the mechanical parameters of the system. This allows the system to adapt its energy absorption characteristics based on operational conditions, engaging different energy absorbers depending on the impact scenario and structural state.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the steering column is fixed to the vehicle during normal handling, then the stability is improved, but the energy dissipation capability in impact situations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device transitions from a static locked state during normal operation to a dynamic state that can unlock during impact. This allows the system to maintain stability during normal handling while enabling energy dissipation mechanisms to activate when needed, adapting the structural rigidity based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple energy absorbers are pre-positioned in the system (first energy absorber between connecting device and steering column assembly, second energy absorber between steering column and vehicle, third energy absorber between connecting device and vehicle) to provide cushioning capacity before impact occurs. These energy absorbers are ready to engage and dissipate impact energy when the connecting device unlocks during a crash.
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 system allows for controlled energy dissipation during normal vehicle handling while effectively absorbing impact forces, reducing the risk of injury by utilizing multiple energy absorbers to manage varying forces, thereby enhancing safety in crash situations.
Implementation Method 1
the first energy absorber is engaged to dissipate energy in response to relative movement between the connecting device and the steering column assembly when the connecting device is in the locked configuration
Implementation Method 2
a second energy absorber can be disposed between the steering column and the vehicle to dissipate energy in response to relative movement between the steering column and the vehicle
Implementation Method 3
a third energy absorber can be disposed between the connecting device and the vehicle to dissipate energy in response to relative movement between the connecting device and the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
The invention includes a steering column assembly positionable in a vehicle. The invention also includes a connecting device releaseably attachable to the vehicle. The connecting device is moveable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration to selectively lock the steering column assembly with respect to the vehicle. The invention also includes a first energy absorber disposed between the connecting device and the steering column assembly. The first energy absorber is selectively engageable to dissipate energy. For example, the first energy absorber is engaged to dissipate energy in response to relative movement between the connecting device and the steering column assembly when the connecting device is in the locked configuration. The first energy absorber is disengaged with respect to dissipating energy in response to relative movement between the connecting device and the steering column assembly when the connecting device is in the unlocked configuration.