Steering Column Bearing Locking with Dual Eccentric Form-Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bearing units for steering columns in vehicles face a conflict between simple and smooth adjustability and reliable locking, particularly in accident situations, where the steering column must remain firmly locked while allowing for adjustable positioning.
Innovation Solution
A bearing unit with a locking mechanism featuring two eccentrics and form-fit connections in opposing directions, allowing for reliable locking in multiple axes while enabling smooth adjustability, utilizing self-reinforcing toothed sections and a clamping shaft with spring-loaded rotary coupling for secure engagement and easy adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple locking mechanism is used to allow smooth adjustability, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of locking in accident situations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into multiple independent form-fit connections (first and second directions, optionally third and fourth directions) that can engage independently. Each connection consists of separate eccentrics and counterpart eccentric units with toothed sections, allowing the system to provide both smooth adjustment through single-direction engagement and reliable multi-directional locking through multiple engagement points
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from single-direction to multi-directional form-fit connections. By adding eccentrics that engage in opposite directions (first and second directions) and optionally perpendicular directions (third and fourth directions), the system locks the bearing sleeve in multiple spatial dimensions simultaneously, preventing any single-direction movement during accidents while maintaining ease of adjustment
2Reliability
If multiple form-fit connections are used to lock in all directions, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The eccentrics and counterpart eccentric units serve multiple functions: they enable smooth adjustment through controlled engagement, provide reliable locking in multiple directions through form-fit connections, and can be actuated by a single locking device. The toothed sections with self-reinforcing features perform both guiding and locking functions simultaneously, reducing the need for separate components
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple locking functions are merged into a single integrated locking mechanism. The first and second eccentrics (and optionally third and fourth eccentrics) are combined with their respective counterpart eccentric units to form a unified system that provides multi-directional locking through form-fit connections, eliminating the need for separate locking devices for each direction
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 bearing unit ensures both flexible adjustment of the steering wheel position and reliable locking in all directions, including vertical and longitudinal adjustments, ensuring the steering column is securely fixed during accidents while allowing for fine-tuned positioning.
Implementation Method 1
clamping shaft with spring-loaded rotary coupling
Implementation Method 2
form-fit connection acting in a first direction and a second form-fit connection acting in a second direction
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a bearing unit for fastening a steering column in a vehicle. The bearing unit has a bracket unit that can be fixed to the vehicle, a bearing sleeve and a locking mechanism for optionally fixing the bearing sleeve on the bracket unit and for optionally releasing a relative movement of the bearing sleeve with respect to the bracket unit. The locking mechanism has a first eccentric which is coupled to a first counterpart eccentric unit in order to fix the bearing sleeve on the bracket unit via a first form-fit connection acting in a first direction and a second form-fit connection acting in a second direction.