Steering Column Instrument Cluster Clamp Mount for Ergonomic Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing solutions for positioning the instrument cluster in vehicles often result in suboptimal visibility and ergonomics, particularly for drivers of varying heights, due to the fixed position of the instrument cluster and the complexity/cost of welding it to the steering column.
Innovation Solution
A steering column assembly with an instrument cluster supported by a bracket that is fixed to the sleeve of the steering column using a clamp system and screws, eliminating the need for welding and allowing for adjustable positioning without altering the steering column structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the instrument cluster is fixed to the steering column by welding, then the fixing is strong and reliable, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and costly, especially when the steering column is made of aluminium alloy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the welding process (thermal/mechanical joining) with a mechanical fastening system consisting of a clamp and screws. This substitution eliminates the complexity and cost associated with welding aluminium alloys while maintaining reliable fixation of the instrument cluster to the steering column.
2Device complexity
If the instrument cluster is arranged in a fixed position on the dashboard, then the structure is simple, but the visibility and ergonomics are suboptimal for drivers of varying heights
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the instrument cluster dynamic by fixing it to the steering column instead of the dashboard. This allows the instrument cluster to move together with the steering column during manual adjustment, enabling drivers of different heights to achieve optimal visibility and ergonomics while maintaining relatively simple structure.
3Ease of operation
If the instrument cluster is fixed to the steering column, then the visibility and ergonomics are improved, but the structure becomes more complex and may interfere with the retention mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fixing system into distinct functional components: a clamp that provides the primary fixing function and screws that provide adjustable fastening. This segmentation allows the system to achieve reliable fixation without excessive structural complexity and ensures compatibility with the retention mechanism by using a compact, modular design.
4Device complexity
If a compact solution is adopted for fixing the instrument cluster, then the retention mechanism is not interfered with, but the rigidity may be insufficient to avoid undesired vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fastening functions into a single integrated clamp-screw assembly. The clamp provides structural rigidity and vibration resistance, while the screws provide adjustable secure fastening. This combination achieves both compactness (not interfering with the retention mechanism) and sufficient rigidity (avoiding undesired vibrations).
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column assembly has a support structure suitable for attachment to a vehicle frame, a steering column, and a sleeve, which coaxially houses the column and is coupled to the support structure so as to swing upwards and downwards; the sleeve supports an instrument cluster via a bracket, which is fixed to the sleeve by a coupling that includes a clamp system.