Steering Column Energy Absorber With Coaxial Deformation Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column designs with energy absorption devices are structurally complex and limited in energy absorption properties, requiring a simpler and more functional solution.
Innovation Solution
A steering column with a coaxially arranged energy absorption element that includes rotationally symmetrical inner and outer sections connected via a forming section, allowing for continuous plastic deformation and high energy absorption in a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing energy absorption devices are used in steering columns, then crash energy absorption is achieved, but the structural complexity increases and energy absorption properties are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption element is divided into multiple sections (first section, second section, third section) with different geometric configurations. Each section contributes differently to energy absorption through controlled deformation, allowing the device to absorb energy more effectively while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The energy absorption element incorporates curved and rounded geometric features, including circular cross-sections and smooth transitions between sections. These curved geometries facilitate controlled plastic deformation during crash events, improving energy absorption while avoiding sharp corners that would concentrate stress and complicate the structure.
2Reliability
If existing energy absorption devices are used in steering columns, then crash energy absorption is achieved, but the energy absorption properties are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption element is divided into multiple sections (first section, second section, third section) with different geometric configurations. Each section contributes differently to energy absorption through controlled deformation, allowing the device to absorb energy more effectively while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the energy absorption element have different geometric properties - the first section has a larger outer diameter than the second section, and the third section has specific wall thickness variations. These local geometric variations are optimized to control the deformation sequence and energy absorption characteristics, maximizing the overall energy absorption capacity.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact energy absorption device is designed, then space is saved, but the energy absorption path length is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption element features a telescopic structure where the first section can move relative to the second section along the longitudinal axis. This nested arrangement allows the sections to deform sequentially during compression, effectively extending the energy absorption path length within a compact overall volume. The third section with its specific geometric configuration further contributes to extending the deformation path while maintaining compact dimensions.
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 controlled and uniform energy absorption with high bending and buckling stiffness, ensuring operational reliability under extreme loads while minimizing lateral displacement and maintaining a compact structure.
Implementation Method 1
continuous plastic deformation
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention relates to a steering column (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising at least two components (3, 4) adjustable relative to each other, to which a linear adjustment drive (6) is actuated by a motor and adjustable in an adjustment direction along an adjustment axis (S), wherein an energy absorption device (6) comprising an energy absorption element (61) is arranged between the adjustment drive (5) and at least one of the components (4). To enable a simpler design and enhanced functionality, the invention proposes that the energy absorption element (61) has an inner section (62) coaxial with respect to the adjustment axis (S), which is connected in a sleeve-like manner to a coaxially arranged outer section (64) via a forming section (63) that is at least partially coaxially circumferential.