Steering Column Energy Absorber Layout for Compact Adaptive Crash Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy absorption systems for steering columns are bulky, consuming excessive space and require complex and labor-intensive change-out procedures during pre-production testing, making them inefficient for compact packaging and rapid testing protocols.
Innovation Solution
A compound energy absorption system combining a slide and deformation strip mechanism with an energy absorbing strap, utilizing a pyrotechnic switch to selectively engage or disengage the second energy absorption mechanism based on crash severity, allowing for adaptive, compact, and easily accessible design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional energy absorption systems are used, then crash protection is provided, but the system consumes excessive space and protrudes radially from the steering column
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption mechanisms are nested within the steering column structure. The first energy absorption mechanism is positioned inside the steering column tube, and the second mechanism is integrated into the same space, allowing both mechanisms to occupy minimal radial space while maintaining full crash protection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from radial protrusion to longitudinal arrangement by positioning energy absorption mechanisms along the length of the steering column rather than extending outward. This dimensional reorganization allows the system to fit within the constrained radial space of the steering column while maintaining adequate energy absorption capacity.
2Ease of operation
If traditional energy absorption systems are used, then crash protection is provided, but the change-out procedure is complex and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption system is segmented into modular components that can be independently accessed and replaced. The first and second energy absorption mechanisms are positioned such that they can be individually removed and installed without requiring complete disassembly of the steering column, significantly simplifying the change-out procedure during pre-production testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces accessible positioning features and intermediate access points that facilitate easy removal and installation of energy absorption mechanisms. These intermediary structures allow test personnel to quickly exchange mechanisms without complex tools or procedures, while maintaining the integrity and reliability of the crash protection system.
3Force
If multiple energy absorption mechanisms are stacked in series, then energy absorption capacity is increased, but the system consumes more space
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple energy absorption mechanisms are nested within the same spatial envelope rather than being stacked externally. The first and second mechanisms are positioned concentrically or adjacently within the steering column tube, allowing their combined energy absorption capacity to be achieved without increasing the overall radial dimensions of the system.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of stacking mechanisms radially outward, the patent arranges them longitudinally along the steering column axis. This dimensional reorganization allows multiple mechanisms to be positioned in series within the available length of the steering column, increasing energy absorption capacity while maintaining a compact radial profile.
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 system provides a compact and efficient energy absorption solution that adapts to crash severity, reducing space consumption and simplifying testing procedures by allowing for selective engagement of energy absorption mechanisms, thereby enhancing safety and testing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a pyrotechnic switch that may be configured to selectively engage or disengage the second energy absorption mechanism based on a severity of a crash event
Implementation Method 2
the slide may straddle the deformation strip and deform the deformation strip during relative movement between the two in a crash event. In particular, in a crash event the inner jacket tube and the deformation strip move relative to the slide, and the slide 'squeezes' the deformation strip to deform the deformation strip and thereby provide a resistive force
Data Source
AI summary
A compound energy absorption system for a steering column may include different first and second energy absorption mechanisms. The first energy absorption mechanism may involve a slide that deforms a deformation strip in a crash event. The second energy absorption mechanism may involve an energy absorbing strap and a carrier, with the energy absorbing strap being configured to bend and/or tear in a crash event. The energy absorbing strap, the carrier, the deformation strip, and the slide may be packaged compactly in series along an inner jacket tube of the steering column such that the carrier and the deformation strip move relative to the slide and a portion of the energy absorbing strap in a crash event. A pyrotechnic switch, a solenoid, or the like may selectively couple or decouple the second energy absorption mechanism depending on the severity or anticipated severity of a crash event.