Steering Column Energy Absorption Module Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible steering column assemblies face challenges in simplifying assembly and enhancing energy absorption during secondary impacts, with a need for improved energy absorption characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible steering column assembly featuring a simplified energy absorption module subassembly with a retainer and energy absorption device, including a serpentine-shaped member and optional damper, designed to absorb energy during a secondary impact by deforming and utilizing a rigid member for enhanced energy dissipation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a traditional collapsible steering column assembly is used, then energy absorption during secondary impact is achieved, but assembly complexity increases and requires additional fasteners
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the energy absorption device, retainer, and mounting features into a single integrated energy absorption module. This merging of components eliminates the need for separate fasteners and reduces assembly complexity while maintaining effective energy absorption during secondary impacts
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it holds the energy absorption device, provides mounting attachment to the column housing, and guides the collapse stroke. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall assembly
2Device complexity
If a simplified energy absorption module is used, then assembly is simplified, but energy absorption effectiveness may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption device is designed with segmented deformation zones including an initial deformation zone and a secondary deformation zone. This segmentation allows the device to absorb energy in stages, maintaining high energy absorption effectiveness while keeping the overall structure compact and simple to assemble
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the material properties and geometric configuration of the energy absorption device to optimize energy absorption. The serpentine shape and controlled deformation characteristics are achieved through specific dimensional parameters that maximize energy dissipation while maintaining assembly simplicity
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 provides effective energy absorption during secondary impacts, simplifies assembly, and reduces the need for additional fasteners, while ensuring the energy absorption module securely integrates within the steering column assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a serpentine-shaped member and optional damper, designed to absorb energy during a secondary impact by deforming
Implementation Method 2
a serpentine-shaped member and optional damper, designed to absorb energy during a secondary impact
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~3B
Figure 3C~5
AI summary
An energy absorption module subassembly for a steering column assembly comprising; an energy absorption device; and a retainer assembled with the energy absorption device configured for i) installation into at least a portion of a column housing of the steering column assembly at a first location; ii) supportively carrying the energy absorption device at least partially within the retainer; and enabling the retainer to at least partially deform in response to a load occasioned during an impact collapse stroke of an inner column tube of the steering column assembly that forces the retainer to translate in a forward direction to a second location that is forward in a vehicle relative to the first location.