Steering Column Clamp Bolt Stop Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable steering columns face challenges in securely maintaining adjustability while preventing securement elements from getting stuck in the open state, particularly when utilizing form closure mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a stop element on the clamp bolt that interacts with a counterstop, along with spring-elastic elements to control the axial shifting of the clamp bolt, ensuring controlled offset of securement elements and preventing sticking during adjustments, allowing for securement through a combination of form and friction closures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If securement elements are used to maintain adjustability in the closed state, then the steering column can be securely fixed, but the securement elements may get stuck in the open state preventing proper adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
A stop element is introduced as an intermediary component between the clamp bolt and the securement elements. This stop element controls the axial shifting of the clamp bolt, ensuring that securement elements are properly offset during opening and closing operations, thereby preventing them from getting stuck while maintaining secure fixation when closed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes spring-elastic elements to dynamically change the axial position parameters of the clamp bolt and securement elements. The springs enable controlled movement and offset of these components during opening and closing, transitioning them between different positional states to prevent sticking while ensuring reliable securement.
2Ease of operation
If the clamp bolt is allowed to shift axially during opening and closing, then securement elements can be offset properly, but uncontrolled shifting may cause insecurement or instability
Solution Approach 1:
The stop element acts as a mediator that controls and limits the axial shifting of the clamp bolt. It ensures that the shifting occurs to the precise extent needed for proper offset of securement elements during opening and closing, while preventing excessive or uncontrolled movement that would compromise the stability and security of the steering column assembly.
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
This solution enables controlled adjustment of the steering column in height, inclination, and length by ensuring that securement elements do not become stuck, maintaining stability and adjustability while securely fixing the jacket unit to the vehicle body.
Implementation Method 1
spring-elastic elements to control the axial shifting of the clamp bolt
Implementation Method 2
securement through a combination of form and friction closures
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable steering column for a motor vehicle includes a casing unit that rotatably supports a steering shaft, first and second lateral flanges, which can be fastened to the body and between which the casing unit is arranged, a locking device that comprises a clamping bolt, which penetrates the lateral flanges through openings and which is moved in the axial direction when the locking device is opened and closed, and first and second locking elements, between which the casing unit is arranged. The first locking element interacts with a first mating locking element in the closed state of the locking device, and the second locking element interacts with a second mating locking element in the closed state of the locking device. A stop element is arranged on or against the clamping bolt in the area between the two lateral flanges, said stop element being at a distance from a counter-stop in the closed state of the locking device.