Steering Column Energy Absorber Layout for Compact Crash Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy absorption systems for steering columns face challenges in packaging efficiency, consuming excessive space and requiring complex change-out procedures during pre-production testing.
Innovation Solution
A compound energy absorption system incorporating a first energy absorption mechanism, such as a slide and deformation strip, and a second mechanism, like a bend-tear sheet, with a pyrotechnic switch for selective engagement, allowing compact packaging and easy access.
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 integration 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 allotted space without compromising crash protection.
2Reliability
If two energy absorption mechanisms are stacked in series, then crash protection is enhanced, but the system consumes more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two different energy absorption mechanisms into a compact integrated system. The first mechanism (deformation strip with slide) and the second mechanism (tear-resistant strap with catches) are combined in series within the steering column, allowing enhanced crash protection through mechanism diversity while minimizing space through functional integration.
3Volume of moving object
If the energy absorption system is tightly integrated, then space is optimized, but access for testing and maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption system is segmented into distinct modular components: the first mechanism with deformation strip and slide, and the second mechanism with tear-resistant strap and catches. This segmentation allows each component to be independently accessed, removed, and replaced while maintaining tight integration within the steering column structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates movable components such as the slide that travels along the deformation strip and the catches that engage with the strap. These dynamic elements allow for easy disengagement and replacement during testing while maintaining compact integration during normal operation.
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 adaptive energy absorption tailored to crash severity, optimizing space utilization and simplifying pre-production testing by enabling selective engagement of mechanisms based on crash conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a pyrotechnic switch for selective coupling/decoupling the second energy absorption mechanism
Implementation Method 2
the slide 'squeezes' the deformation strip to deform the deformation strip and thereby provide a resistive force
Implementation Method 3
The second energy absorption mechanism comprises an energy absorbing strap that is configured to at least one of bend or tear in a crash event
Data Source
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AI summary
A compound energy absorption system (100) for a steering column (10) may include different first and second energy absorption mechanisms. The first energy absorption mechanism (102) may involve a slide (106) that deforms a deformation strip (114) in a crash event. The second energy absorption mechanism (104) may involve an energy absorbing strap (182) and a carrier (184), with the energy absorbing strap (182) being configured to bend and/or tear in a crash event. The energy absorbing strap (182), the carrier (184), the deformation strip (114), and the slide (106) may be packaged compactly in series along an inner jacket tube (12) of the steering column (10) such that the carrier (184) and the deformation strip (114) move relative to the slide (106) and a portion (218) of the energy absorbing strap (182) in a crash event. A pyrotechnic switch (180), a solenoid, or the like may selectively couple or decouple the second energy absorption mechanism (104) depending on the severity or anticipated severity of a crash event.