Steering Column Elastic Bracket for Axial Displacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor-adjustable steering columns require complex and expensive length compensation mechanisms that also affect the natural frequency and rigidity of the steering column.
Innovation Solution
A steering column design featuring an elastic bracket element attached to the vehicle chassis, allowing for pivoting and axial displacement of the actuating unit through elastic deformation, which simplifies length compensation without compromising rigidity or natural frequency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid linkage is used for the pivoting lever, then the structural stability is improved, but the length compensation becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket element changes its physical state from rigid to elastically deformable, allowing it to accommodate axial displacements through elastic deformation rather than requiring complex mechanical compensation mechanisms. This parameter change enables the bracket to absorb length variations while maintaining structural stability.
2Manufacturing precision
If a complex length compensation mechanism is added, then the positioning accuracy is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket element is designed as a simple, inexpensive elastic component that replaces complex and expensive length compensation mechanisms. By using an elastic bracket that can be easily manufactured from standard materials, the solution achieves positioning accuracy without the high manufacturing costs associated with complex mechanical compensation systems.
3Manufacturing precision
If additional compensation mechanisms are added to the steering column, then the adjustment precision is improved, but the natural frequency and rigidity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket element's elastic properties are specifically designed to provide the necessary compliance for length compensation while maintaining sufficient rigidity for steering column functionality. By carefully selecting the elastic parameters of the bracket material and geometry, the solution achieves adjustment precision without compromising the natural frequency and overall rigidity of the steering column.
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
Enables cost-effective and efficient length compensation while maintaining the steering column's natural frequency and rigidity, allowing for both vertical pivoting and axial displacement of the actuating unit.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic bracket element which is provided for attachment to the vehicle chassis and, by elastic deformation, allows both pivoting of the actuating unit about a pivot axis and displacement of the actuating unit in the direction of the axis of rotation
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
The invention relates to a steering column (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising an actuating unit (2), which encloses a steering shaft (4, 5) rotatable about an axis of rotation (9) and, with the rear end region (10) of the actuating unit facing the vehicle rear, is vertically pivotably arranged on a holding unit (6) fixed to the vehicle chassis by means of a first motor drive (7) via an articulated pivoting lever (14). Said steering column is improved with regard to economical attachment of the front end region (21) of the actuating unit by the fact that the actuating unit (2) is provided in the front end region (21) of the actuating unit facing the vehicle front with a resilient bracket element (8), which can be fixedly connected to the vehicle chassis and, by means of elastic deformation, permits both vertical pivoting and axial displacement of the actuating unit (2). Advantageously, in this way complicated compensating measures for the axial displacement of the actuating unit (2) can be saved.