Steering Column Energy Absorber with Selective Strap Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy absorbing devices for steering columns lack the ability to dynamically adjust the collapse load based on anticipated impact events, leading to suboptimal kinetic energy dissipation during collisions.
Innovation Solution
A dual-strap energy absorbing system for the steering column, where a pyrotechnic device selectively couples and decouples the straps to manage energy absorption during high- and low-load impact events, allowing for tailored kinetic energy dissipation by altering the collapse characteristics of the steering column.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single strap configuration is used, then the device structure is simple, but the ability to adjust collapse load for different impact events is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorbing system is divided into multiple independent strap elements (first strap, second strap, third strap) that can be selectively coupled together. Each strap can be independently activated or deactivated based on impact conditions, allowing the system to adapt its energy absorption characteristics without requiring a completely different device configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device dynamically changes the connectivity between straps based on impact detection. During high-load impacts, the coupling device connects all straps to maximize energy absorption. During low-load impacts, it selectively disconnects certain straps to reduce the collapse load, enabling real-time adaptation of system stiffness and energy absorption capacity.
2Strength
If multiple straps are coupled together, then energy absorption for high-load events is improved, but energy dissipation for low-load events becomes excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically reconfigures its energy absorption characteristics by selectively coupling and uncoupling straps based on impact severity. The coupling device detects impact load levels and adjusts the active strap configuration accordingly, ensuring optimal energy dissipation for each impact scenario rather than a fixed high-energy-absorption mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its effective stiffness and energy absorption parameters by altering the mechanical connectivity between straps. By changing the coupling state (connected vs. disconnected) based on impact conditions, the system adjusts its energy absorption parameter to match the required protection level, preventing both under-protection and over-protection.
3Strength
If the collapse load is increased for high-load events, then structural strength is improved, but the device becomes less adaptable to low-load events
Solution Approach 1:
The strap system is segmented into multiple independent elements that can be selectively activated. This segmentation allows the system to provide high collapse load when needed (by engaging multiple straps) while maintaining adaptability to lower load events (by disengaging certain straps), resolving the contradiction between strength and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device enables dynamic reconfiguration of the strap system, allowing the collapse load to be adjusted in real-time based on impact detection. This dynamic capability ensures the system maintains both high strength capability (when all straps are engaged) and high adaptability (when straps are selectively disengaged) across different operating conditions.
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 effectively manages energy absorption by providing a higher collapse load during high-load events and reducing it during low-load events, enhancing the safety and efficiency of kinetic energy dissipation in steering column assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
whereby a pyrotechnic device selectively couples and decouples the straps to manage energy absorption during high- and low-load impact events
Implementation Method 2
a first strap coupled to the steering column assembly, the first strap configured to absorb energy of an impact event on the steering column assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An energy absorbing device for a steering column assembly is provided. The device includes a first strap coupled to the steering column assembly, the first strap configured to absorb energy of an impact event on the steering column assembly, a second strap coupled to the steering column assembly. The second strap is also configured to absorb energy of an impact event on the steering column. A coupling device connects the second strap to the first strap such that both the first strap and the second strap absorb energy of a first impact event. The coupling device selectively uncouples the second strap from the first strap such that the only the first strap absorbs energy of a second impact event.