Steering Column Pivot Bearing Shell for Rigid Axial Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pivot bearing arrangements for steering columns in motor vehicles are complex and non-rigid, requiring multiple components and complex assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A pivot bearing arrangement using a single sliding bearing shell with a circumferential radial projection engaging in a groove on the steering shaft, combined with a second sliding bearing shell and a bearing ring with a compression spring for axial preload, simplifies construction and assembly while providing rigid mounting and reduced friction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a traditional sliding bearing mounting is used for the steering shaft, then the mounting is non-rigid in the axial direction, but the structure becomes complex and assembly becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing shell is segmented into a two-piece construction with a first bearing shell portion and a second bearing shell portion that can be assembled separately onto the steering shaft, allowing each piece to be optimized for specific functions (radial support vs axial positioning) while maintaining overall simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds an axial dimension to the bearing arrangement by introducing a second bearing shell portion that extends axially beyond the first portion, creating an axial stop that provides rigid mounting in the axial direction while keeping the radial bearing function separate
2Reliability
If multiple bearing components are used to achieve rigid mounting, then the mounting rigidity improves, but the assembly complexity and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the radial bearing function (first bearing shell portion) and the axial positioning function (second bearing shell portion) into a single integrated bearing shell assembly that mounts as one unit onto the steering shaft, reducing component count while achieving both rigid radial and axial mounting
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing shell is designed as a multi-functional component where the first bearing shell portion provides radial support through sliding contact, while the second bearing shell portion provides axial positioning through an axial stop, making the single component serve multiple mounting functions simultaneously
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple bearing structure is used, then the assembly process becomes easier, but the bearing cannot effectively absorb axial and moment loads
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing shell is segmented into functional portions where the first bearing shell portion handles radial loads through sliding contact and the second bearing shell portion handles axial loads through the axial stop, allowing each segment to be optimized for its specific load type while maintaining assembly simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing arrangement incorporates a compression spring that applies preload to the bearing shell, creating a dynamically adaptable mounting that can accommodate thermal expansion and wear while maintaining consistent load-bearing capacity and rigid mounting throughout the steering column's operational life
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 enables a simple, cost-effective, and rigid pivot bearing arrangement that reduces assembly complexity and friction, effectively absorbing axial and moment loads, enhancing the stability of the steering column.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring (22) which preloads the second sliding bearing shell (12) relative to the first sliding bearing shell (11) rigidly fastened to the casing unit (3) in the axial direction
Implementation Method 2
the casing unit (3) is provided with at least one first sliding bearing shell (11), which comprises a first circumferential radial projection (14), which engages in a first circumferential groove (15) of the steering shaft (2)
Data Source
AI summary
A pivot bearing arrangement for a steering column of a motor vehicle, having a steering shaft which is rotatably mounted in a casing unit in the direction of its axis of rotation but rigidly mounted in the radial direction, is improved in terms of a simple and cost-effective construction in that the casing unit is provided with at least one first sliding bearing shell, which comprises a first circumferential radial projection, which engages in a first circumferential groove.