Steering Column Connector Arrangement for Secure Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electrical connection methods for motor vehicle accessories, such as power steering devices, are prone to blind connections due to cramped access areas, leading to a high risk of disconnection, especially when the vehicle is in motion, which can be dangerous for the driver.
Innovation Solution
An arrangement featuring a support with a U-shaped housing and extension plate positioned under the steering column, allowing for easy access and visual verification of the power and signal connectors, ensuring a secure and robust connection by keeping the connectors protected from external interference and foot contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the power connector and signal connector are systematically assembled and locked by an operator in a cramped area under the steering column, then the electrical connection can be established, but the risk of blind connection increases and the connectors may not be properly connected, leading to disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates the connector assembly location from a cramped area under the steering column to a more accessible position on the steering column housing. This spatial repositioning allows operators to easily access and visually verify connector assembly while maintaining secure electrical connections for the power-assisted steering device.
2Reliability
If the connectors are positioned in a cramped area under the steering column, then the electrical connection can be made, but the access for assembly, control, or maintenance operations becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the connectors from the cramped area under the steering column and repositions them on the steering column housing where they are more accessible. This separation allows operators to easily reach and visually inspect the connectors while the power-assisted steering device remains functional.
3Ease of manufacture
If the connectors are exposed to the external environment in a cramped area, then assembly is possible, but the risk of external interference and foot contact increases, leading to potential disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs the steering column housing structure to enclose and protect the connectors from external environmental factors and foot contact. The housing acts as a protective barrier while allowing accessible assembly and maintenance operations.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention concerns an arrangement for electrically connecting a motor vehicle accessory (10) to an electrical energy source and to at least one electronic device of the vehicle, of the type which comprises: at least one power connector (12, 14) which is capable of being mounted on the accessory (10) in a connected position for connecting the accessory (10) to the electrical energy source, and at least one signal connector (35) which is capable of being mounted on the accessory (10) in a connected position for connecting the accessory (10) to said electronic device of the vehicle, characterized in that the electrical connection of the accessory (10) is performed on a support (16) arranged below the steering column close to the region of a driver's feet. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle electric power-assisted steering column equipped with such an arrangement of connectors for the electrical connection thereof.