Steering Column Support Unit with Transverse Elastic Bracing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column designs face challenges in achieving high natural frequency while minimizing design-related adjustments and installation space, with prior methods like using spring washers leading to undesirable frequency reduction and complex structural adaptations.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates resilient support elements, such as spring elements, attached to the support unit in a protruding manner to provide additional support transverse to the longitudinal direction, allowing elastic bracing against vehicle-fixed structures, thereby increasing natural frequency without significant space or design complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If spring washers are used between connection sections and vehicle-fixed structure to ensure bracing, then the connection rigidity is improved, but the natural frequency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces support elements that extend in a direction transverse to both the longitudinal axis and the connection direction, adding a third dimensional aspect to the support structure. This lateral support dimension provides additional bracing without interfering with the primary connection path, thereby maintaining high natural frequency while ensuring connection rigidity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If spring washers are used to provide preload force on fastening elements, then the connection stability is improved, but the natural frequency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the support function into two independent segments: connection elements for vertical attachment to the vehicle body, and separate support elements for lateral bracing. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function - connection elements provide stable attachment while support elements provide lateral support that increases natural frequency, avoiding the frequency reduction caused by spring washers.
3Strength
If the support unit is firmly connected to the vehicle body, then the connection strength is improved, but the design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support elements are designed to serve multiple functions: they provide lateral support to increase natural frequency, accommodate tolerance deviations through their elastic properties, and work together with the connection elements to achieve firm connection to the vehicle body. This multi-functionality reduces design complexity compared to using separate components for each function.
4Reliability
If elastic support elements are added to increase natural frequency, then the vibration characteristics are improved, but the installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support elements are integrated into the existing support unit structure, with connecting elements that attach to the holding section and extend laterally. This nested integration allows the support elements to be accommodated within the overall footprint of the steering column assembly, increasing natural frequency without significantly increasing installation space requirements.
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
This approach enhances the natural frequency of the steering column while requiring minimal design adjustments and accommodating tolerance deviations, facilitating simpler manufacturing and assembly.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic support element is attached to the support unit in an outwardly projecting manner, wherein the support element protrudes in a supporting direction transverse to the longitudinal direction and transverse to the connecting direction
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a steering column (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising a supporting unit (3), which has a retaining portion (31), in which a steering shaft (4) is mounted for rotation about the longitudinal axis (40) thereof extending in a longitudinal direction (L), and which has at least one connecting portion (33) connected to the retaining portion (31). In order to specify an improved supporting unit (3), which permits a higher natural frequency, according to the invention at least one resilient bracing element (7) is attached to the supporting unit (3) at a distance (A) from the connecting portion (33) projecting outwards.