Steering Column Energy Absorption Strap Cam Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing designs for securing an energy absorption strap in a telescopic steering column assembly struggle to accommodate both high and low load energy absorption variants efficiently, due to vehicle packaging and functional design constraints.
Innovation Solution
A steering column assembly with a lower jacket assembly, an upper jacket assembly, and an energy absorption assembly that includes an energy absorption strap, a bracket, a pin, and a cam member, where the energy absorption strap is coupled to both jacket assemblies and the cam member has complementary engagement members to secure the strap, allowing for adjustable engagement based on the position of the adjustment lever.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing designs are used to secure the energy absorption strap, then the steering column can be manufactured with standard designs, but the design cannot accommodate both high and low load energy absorption strap variants efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption strap is segmented with multiple engagement members distributed along its length, allowing selective engagement at different positions to accommodate varying load requirements. The strap is divided into functional segments that can be independently engaged or disengaged based on the specific load condition.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket and cam member assembly is designed as a universal mechanism that can secure the energy absorption strap in multiple positions and configurations. This multi-functional design allows the same structural components to accommodate both high load and low load strap variants without requiring separate dedicated designs for each load type.
2Ease of operation
If the energy absorption strap is secured with a fixed design, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the ability to adjust engagement based on load conditions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a fixed design to a dynamic system where the cam member can rotate to different positions based on the adjustment lever position. This allows the engagement points between the bracket, cam member, and energy absorption strap to be dynamically adjusted, enabling operation adaptability while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standardized component geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates preliminary positioning features and guide structures that pre-align the engagement members before final locking occurs. This preliminary anti-action ensures proper alignment and reduces manufacturing tolerance requirements, making the adjustable mechanism easier to manufacture while maintaining operational flexibility.
3Reliability
If the steering column assembly uses a simplified locking mechanism, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of securing the energy absorption strap under varying loads is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism incorporates local quality variations through the cam member geometry and engagement member distribution. Different regions of the cam member have different engagement characteristics, allowing the system to provide appropriate securing force for varying load conditions. The engagement members are strategically positioned at different locations along the energy absorption strap to optimize local engagement quality for high and low load scenarios.
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 design allows for secure and adjustable energy absorption across varying load conditions, ensuring effective deceleration of the steering column during a collapse event while accommodating different energy absorption strap configurations.
Implementation Method 1
The cam member is pivotally connected to the bracket by a pin that extends through the first opening and the second opening. The cam member has a first cam member portion and a second cam member portion. The second cam member portion has a plurality of complementary engagement members configured to engage the plurality of engagement members.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column assembly includes an energy absorption assembly. The energy absorption assembly includes an energy absorption strap, a bracket, a pin, and a cam member. The energy absorption strap includes a plurality of engagement members. The bracket is disposed on at least one of a lower jacket assembly and an upper jacket assembly. The bracket has a first wall disposed opposite a second wall. The pin extends through the first wall and the second wall to couple the cam member to the bracket. The cam member has a plurality of complementary engagement members configured to engage the plurality of engagement members.