Steering Column Energy Absorber Loop with Breakaway Link
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy absorption devices in vehicle steering columns face challenges in controlling high initial forces during impacts, are complex to assemble, and can generate noise due to component tolerances and vibrations.
Innovation Solution
A simplified energy absorption device featuring a plastically deformable component forming a loop with a breakaway link, where the breakage of the link creates a peak force absorption spike, with the deformation of the component absorbing energy progressively, and the design focuses on the plastically deformable component rather than other column components for easier assembly and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a breakaway element is added to create high initial force, then the peak force control is improved, but the assembly complexity increases due to specific operation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The breakaway element is integrated into the plastically deformable component itself, forming a unified loop structure where the breakaway section is an inherent part of the component rather than a separate element. This merging eliminates the need for specific assembly operations to install a separate breakaway element while maintaining the peak force control function.
2Force
If multiple components are fitted together to create peak force, then the force control capability is improved, but the manufacturing precision becomes difficult to control due to tolerance dependencies
Solution Approach 1:
The plastically deformable component is designed with a specific breakaway section that has a controlled cross-sectional area, segmenting the force absorption process into distinct phases: initial breakage of the link at a predetermined force level, followed by progressive deformation of the loop. This segmentation allows precise control of the peak force without depending on tolerances between multiple fitted components.
3Force
If multiple components are fitted together, then the peak force mechanism is achieved, but noise generation increases due to vibrations from component proximities
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the breakaway element into the plastically deformable component to form a unified loop structure, the invention eliminates gaps and proximities between separate components that would generate vibrations and noise. The merged structure ensures smooth force transmission and energy absorption without the harmful vibrations associated with multiple fitted parts.
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 effectively manages high initial forces during impacts by breaking the breakaway link, allowing the plastically deformable component to absorb energy progressively, reducing assembly complexity and noise issues, while maintaining control over the absorption process.
Implementation Method 1
a plastically deformable component forming a loop... leads to a stress that tends to cause the loop to deform, and the deformation of the loop to continue after said breakage
Data Source
AI summary
An absorber of steering column shock energy includes a plastically deformable part forming a loop, a breakaway link closing this loop on itself, and a first attachment interface and a second attachment interface separate from the breakaway link and arranged on either side of the loop. The part and the fusible link are arranged so that the exertion of forces in opposite directions on the first attachment interface and on the second attachment interface respectively, causes a stress leading to a deformation of the loop, breaking of the breakaway link and further deformation of the loop after this break.