Steering Module Column Cover Integrating Meter Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering module structures compromise work efficiency during vehicle assembly and customization, as they do not allow for easy modification of functional components like meters, limiting user customization and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A modular steering module with a column cover that integrates functional components, including a display and air conditioner duct, allowing for customizable cockpit design without impairing work efficiency, where the meter member is formed integrally with the column cover and the display is movable for improved user experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the meter is mounted on an instrument panel, then the meter position is fixed and stable, but work efficiency at the time of vehicle assembly is reduced and customization is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument panel is divided into a column cover portion and a meter portion that can be independently configured. The meter member is formed integrally with the column cover, creating a modular assembly that can be pre-assembled and then installed as a unit, improving work efficiency while allowing different meter configurations for customization.
Solution Approach 2:
The column cover serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, houses the meter member, and acts as a mounting base for functional components. This multi-functional design allows the same base structure to accommodate various meter types and configurations, enabling customization without compromising assembly efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If functional components are mounted on the instrument panel, then the layout is stable, but the ability to customize the cockpit according to user requests is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The meter member is formed integrally with the column cover, merging two previously separate components into one unified structure. This integration reduces the number of independent parts while maintaining the ability to customize the meter type and configuration, thereby reducing device complexity without limiting customization options.
Solution Approach 2:
The meter member is pre-formed as an integral part of the column cover during manufacturing, allowing customization decisions to be made earlier in the production process. This preliminary action enables different meter configurations to be built into the column cover before vehicle assembly, reducing the number of components needed during final assembly.
3Ease of operation
If the display device is fixed in position, then the structure is simple, but the user experience and comfort are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The display device is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to adjust its position or orientation based on user needs. This dynamic capability enhances user comfort and experience by enabling optimal viewing angles while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through the use of straightforward mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering module includes a steering wheel which is provided in front of a driver seat, a column cover which is provided on a vehicle front side of the steering wheel, extends in a forward and rearward direction of a vehicle, and has a functional component mounting region in at least one of an inner inside and an upper portion thereof, and a meter member which is formed integrally with the column cover and includes a main display portion disposed at a position spaced apart from the column cover.