Steering Column Energy Absorption Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column assemblies with energy absorption devices struggle to dynamically adjust energy absorption based on varying driver conditions, such as seatbelt use and vehicle speed, which can lead to inadequate protection during vehicle crashes.
Innovation Solution
A steering column assembly with a coupling device that adjusts its energy absorption configuration based on external parameters, featuring a locking element and a coupling device with a steering rack, allowing the energy absorption elements to switch between coupled and uncoupled positions to adapt energy absorption requirements, and utilizing a pyrotechnic or electric actuator to switch between these positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the energy absorption device uses a fixed configuration with both absorption elements always coupled, then maximum energy absorption is achieved, but the device cannot adapt to different driver conditions (e.g., seatbelt use, vehicle speed)
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption device transitions from a static configuration to a dynamic one by introducing a coupling device that can switch between coupled and uncoupled positions. The coupling element (steering rack) and coupling arm assembly allow the second absorption element to be dynamically connected or disconnected from the first absorption element based on driver conditions such as seatbelt usage and vehicle speed, enabling adaptive energy absorption without requiring multiple complete device configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The energy absorption device is segmented into separate functional components: a first absorption element, a second absorption element, and a coupling device with a coupling element (steering rack) and coupling arm assembly. This segmentation allows the coupling element to independently control the connection between absorption elements, providing adaptability while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
2Adaptability or versatility
If the coupling element is designed to be movable for adjustment, then adaptability is improved, but the reliability of energy absorption during crash is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by using sensors to detect driver conditions (seatbelt usage, vehicle speed) before a crash occurs and pre-positioning the coupling element in the appropriate state (coupled or uncoupled). This preliminary preparation ensures that when a crash occurs, the energy absorption configuration is already optimized for the specific situation, eliminating the need for movement during the critical crash moment and ensuring maximum reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element is pre-configured to the appropriate position (coupled or uncoupled) based on detected driver conditions before the crash occurs. The control system activates the actuator in advance to position the coupling element, ensuring that the energy absorption device is ready in the optimal configuration when the crash impact occurs, thereby maintaining both adaptability and reliability
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 effectively adjusts energy absorption to match the specific crash conditions, ensuring optimal protection by varying the amount of energy absorbed during a vehicle crash, thereby enhancing driver safety.
Implementation Method 1
each of which is configured to deform plastically by a relative movement of the sleeve element in relation to the mounting element in the case of a vehicle crash
Implementation Method 2
absorbing part of the kinetic energy of the sleeve element in the process
Implementation Method 3
utilizing a pyrotechnic or electric actuator to switch between these positions
Implementation Method 4
utilizing a pyrotechnic or electric actuator to switch between these positions
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column assembly for a motor vehicle, having a vehicle-fixed mounting dement and a sleeve element which is received within the mounting element and is mounted for displacement in the axial direction in the mounting element for adjustment of the steering column assembly, includes an energy absorption device having two absorption elements, a locking element for locking a steering wheel, and a coupling device. The locking element has an open position, in which the steering wheel is adjustable and a coupling element is movable in the axial direction, and a closed position, in which an absorption dement is firmly coupled to the mounting element. The coupling device has a coupled position and an uncoupled position, both absorption elements being firmly connected to each other in the coupled position. During normal operation of the motor vehicle, the locking element is in the closed position and the coupling device is in the coupled position.