Steering Column Energy Absorption with Adaptive Strap Activation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column assemblies with energy absorption devices lack compactness and optimal energy absorption behavior, particularly in varying crash scenarios involving different driver masses, seat belt usage, and vehicle speeds.
Innovation Solution
A steering column assembly with a dual-stage energy absorption device comprising a first and second absorption strap, where the first strap deforms plastically in low-energy crashes and both straps deform in high-energy crashes, adjustable via a coupling device that can activate the second strap based on external parameters like driver mass and vehicle speed, ensuring adaptive energy absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single absorption strap is used in the energy absorption device, then the device structure is simple, but the energy absorption capability is insufficient for high-energy crashes
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption device is segmented into multiple absorption straps (first absorption strap and second absorption strap) that can operate independently or together. Each strap is designed to absorb energy through plastic deformation, and the segmentation allows the system to handle varying energy levels by activating one or both straps depending on the crash severity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device enables dynamic configuration of the absorption straps based on detected crash parameters. The system can switch between different operational modes: first strap only for low-energy crashes, both straps for high-energy crashes, or neither for very severe crashes where the column collapses. This dynamic adaptation optimizes energy absorption capability while managing structural complexity.
2Reliability
If the energy absorption device is designed to absorb maximum energy, then driver protection is maximized, but the device occupies more space and increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects the appropriate absorption configuration based on detected crash parameters (deceleration, duration, distance). The coupling device activates only the necessary number of absorption straps for the given energy level, avoiding unnecessary complexity in low-energy scenarios while ensuring maximum protection when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its operational parameters based on detected crash conditions. By monitoring parameters such as deceleration magnitude and crash duration, the system adjusts which absorption straps are activated, effectively changing the energy absorption characteristics to match the specific crash scenario and optimize driver protection.
3Volume of moving object
If the steering column assembly is made compact, then space is saved, but the energy absorption performance may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The absorption straps are nested within the existing steering column assembly structure. The first and second absorption straps are positioned to work within the column's geometric constraints, utilizing the available space efficiently. The coupling device and control system are integrated into the existing column architecture, maintaining compactness while enabling multi-mode energy absorption functionality.
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 a compact and adaptive energy absorption system that adjusts to different crash conditions, enhancing driver protection by varying the amount of energy absorbed, thereby improving safety and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second absorption straps (30, 32) are designed to deform plastically by a relative movement of the sleeve element (14) in relation to the mounting element (12) during a vehicle crash
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column assembly having a vehicle-fixed mounting element and a sleeve element received in the mounting element, which is mounted displaceably in the axial direction in the mounting element for adjusting the steering column assembly. The steering column assembly further comprises an energy absorption device which can be firmly coupled to the mounting element and is firmly connected to the sleeve element, the energy absorption device being deformed in the event of a vehicle crash in consequence of a longitudinal displacement of the sleeve element, and at the same time absorbing part of the kinetic energy of the sleeve element during the event.