Steering Column Cam Mechanism Cushioning for Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column assemblies face challenges in providing a quiet and smooth adjustment mechanism that reduces noise and wear, while maintaining the ability to adjust the steering wheel's reach and rake effectively and efficiently.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a cam mechanism with a resilient cushioning member, such as an O-ring, that allows for reduced friction and evenly distributed wear, enabling smooth rotation and preventing back rotation, thereby reducing noise and extending the component's lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cam mechanism is used in the locking assembly, then the steering column assembly can be locked securely, but noise and wear occur during operation
Solution Approach 1:
A resilient cushioning member is fitted onto an end stop of the cam mechanism to cushion the impact when the cam mechanism reaches its extreme positions. This beforehand cushioning reduces the noise and wear generated during operation while maintaining the secure locking function of the cam mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the shroud is made adjustable for reach and rake, then driver comfort and airbag positioning are improved, but the complexity of the locking mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable shroud is divided into separate adjustable components that can be independently positioned for reach and rake. The locking mechanism is segmented into a cam mechanism with distinct cam portions for different adjustment directions, allowing complex adjustment functionality while maintaining a relatively simple locking approach for each degree of freedom.
3Device complexity
If the cam mechanism operates without cushioning, then the structure remains simple, but noise and wear increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient cushioning member is fitted onto the end stop in a simple manner that requires minimal structural modification to the cam mechanism. This cushioning member is positioned to absorb impacts at the extreme positions of the cam mechanism, significantly reducing noise and wear while maintaining overall structural 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 a quiet and smooth adjustment mechanism that reduces noise and wear, ensuring extended lifespan of the components and maintaining effective adjustment of the steering wheel's position.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the end stops comprises a resilient cushioning member which provides cushioning as the at least one end stop engages the other end stop upon the locking mechanism reaching the unlocked position
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column assembly comprises an adjustable shroud and a locking mechanism that comprises a clamp pin, a locking handle and a cam mechanism fitted to the clamp pin, in which the cam mechanism comprises first and second cam portions which can be moved relative to each other by operation of the locking handle to vary the overall length of the cam mechanism, the unlocked position of the cam mechanism being defined by contact of a first end stop of the first cam portion with a second end stop of the second cam portion. At least one of the end stops comprises a resilient cushioning member which provides cushioning as the at least one end stop engages the other end stop upon the locking mechanism reaching the unlocked position. The resilient cushioning member is free to move so that on a first engagement, a portion of the resilient cushioning member makes contact with the end stop; and on a second engagement, a different portion of the resilient cushioning member makes contact with the end stop.