Steering Column Energy Absorption Strap Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column assemblies lack the ability to vary kinetic energy dissipation during a collapse event, limiting the adaptability of energy absorption in vehicle impact scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A steering column assembly with a jacket assembly and an energy absorption strap assembly, comprising a first and second energy absorption strap, where the second strap is nested within the first to provide adjustable drag load opposing translation, allowing for variable kinetic energy dissipation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed energy absorption strap configuration is used, then the structure is simple, but the kinetic energy dissipation cannot be varied during collapse
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption strap assembly is divided into multiple discrete straps (first energy absorption strap and second energy absorption strap) that can be independently configured. Each strap can be selectively engaged or disengaged to vary the total energy absorption capacity, allowing the system to provide variable kinetic energy dissipation without requiring a completely complex reconfigurable mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap assembly incorporates movable components including a drag load member that can translate along the straps, and openings that allow selective engagement. This dynamic configuration enables the drag load to adjust its position and the effective length of straps engaged, thereby varying the energy absorption characteristics during different collapse scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple energy absorption straps are used to provide variable energy dissipation, then kinetic energy dissipation can be adjusted, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second energy absorption strap is nested within or alongside the first energy absorption strap, with the drag load member interacting with both straps simultaneously. This nested arrangement allows multiple energy absorption mechanisms to be compactly integrated, providing variable energy dissipation capability while minimizing the overall spatial footprint and reducing the apparent complexity of the assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The drag load member serves multiple functions: it translates along the straps to adjust engagement, it engages with openings in both straps to vary the effective length, and it provides the mechanical connection point for the collapsing steering column. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity despite the enhanced energy absorption adjustability.
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
Enables adaptive kinetic energy dissipation during steering column collapse, enhancing safety by allowing for adjustable energy absorption based on the configuration of the energy absorption strap assembly.
Implementation Method 1
The energy absorption strap assembly is configured to provide a drag load opposing translation of the steering column assembly during a steering column collapse event
Implementation Method 2
The energy absorption strap assembly is configured to provide a drag load opposing translation
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column assembly includes a jacket assembly and an energy absorption strap assembly. The energy absorption strap assembly has a first energy absorption strap and a second energy absorption strap. The first energy absorption strap has a first strap body that extends between a first strap first end and a first strap second end. The first strap body defines a first opening and a second opening. The second energy absorption strap has a second strap body that extends between a second strap first end and a second strap second end. The second strap first end is at least partially received within the first opening and the second strap second end is at least partially received within the second opening.