Steering Column Energy Absorption Bracket Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column designs with energy absorption devices are complex and inflexible, with bending strips being partially exposed and prone to undesirable deformation in crash scenarios, which can impair energy absorption efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The proposed steering column features a bracket element with a fastening element that forms a form closure with the energy absorption element, which is housed within a holder housing. This design allows for controlled deformation of the energy absorption element during crashes, reducing the risk of side deformation and improving assembly efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the bending strip is arranged in a guide rail formed firmly and permanently on the jacket tube and attached to the jacket tube, then the energy absorption element is fixed and stable, but production and assembly become complex and inflexible
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption device is divided into separate modular components: the holding element with holding housing that can be detached from the jacket tube, and the guide rail that remains fixed on the jacket tube. This segmentation allows the bending strip to be stably guided while simplifying assembly and production through modular manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding element is designed with detachable connection features (such as snap-in connectors or bayonet connections) that allow it to be easily attached and detached from the jacket tube. This dynamic connection system provides flexibility in assembly and maintenance while maintaining stability during operation.
2Reliability
If the bending strip is supported on the jacket unit via a driver engaging therein with a fixed structure, then the energy absorption element is securely positioned, but production and assembly become complex and inflexible
Solution Approach 1:
The driver and holding element are designed as separate, interchangeable modules. The holding element with its detachable connection to the jacket tube allows for flexible assembly configurations while the guide rail provides secure positioning of the bending strip through standardized engagement features.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding element is designed with universal connection features that can engage with different jacket tube configurations. The detachable design allows the same holding element to be used across different steering column models, improving production efficiency and adaptability.
3Ease of manufacture
If the energy absorption element is partially exposed on the outside, then it is accessible for installation, but it is prone to undesirable deformation in crash scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The guide rail is nested within the holding housing, which is attached to the jacket tube. This nested arrangement protects the bending strip from external forces and unwanted deformation during crashes while maintaining controlled deformation characteristics for effective energy absorption. The bending strip remains accessible for installation through the open end of the guide rail.
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 improved energy absorption device effectively manages crash forces, reducing the risk of injury by ensuring controlled deformation of the energy absorption element, while also simplifying assembly and reducing production complexity.
Implementation Method 1
an energy absorption element (61) which is plastically deformable in the longitudinal direction while absorbing energy during a relative movement of the casing unit (3) and the casing tube (2)
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
The present invention relates to a steering column (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising an outer casing unit (3), which can be connected directly or indirectly to the motor vehicle and in which a casing tube (2) is held so as to be adjustable in the longitudinal direction, in which casing tube a steering spindle (21) is mounted so as to be rotatable about its longitudinal axis (L) extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein an energy absorption element (61) can be coupled in between the casing unit (3) and the casing tube (2) and is plastically deformable in the event of a relative movement of the casing unit (2) and the casing tube (3) in the longitudinal direction while absorbing energy. In order to provide an energy absorption device with a simpler design that is easier to install, according to the invention a mount element (7) is releasably connected to the casing tube (2), wherein the energy absorption element (61) is attached between the mount element (7) and the casing tube (2), and the mount element (7) has a mount housing that receives the energy absorption element (61) at least in part.