Steering Column Attachment Assembly with Flexible Insert
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steering column attachment methods for automotive vehicles suffer from misalignment and variance in location due to relaxed manufacturing tolerances and poor quality, making it difficult to securely and adjustably attach aftermarket or generic steering columns to the dashboard.
Innovation Solution
A steering column attachment assembly comprising a penannular flexible insert and a strap clamp with adjustable compression members, which allows for secure and adjustable attachment of the steering column to the dashboard, using a securing bracket to connect fasteners and ensure precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional steering column attachment methods are used, then installation is simple, but misalignment and variance in location occur due to relaxed manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment assembly is divided into multiple functional segments: a contoured body that interfaces with the steering column, a strap clamp that provides compression, and a securing bracket that attaches to the dashboard. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while collectively achieving precise alignment and secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The contoured body acts as an intermediary component between the steering column and the securing bracket. Its contoured geometry is specifically designed to match the steering column's shape, providing a precise interface that eliminates misalignment issues while the strap clamp mediates the compression force to lock the assembly in place.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed attachment methods are used, then structure is simple, but adjustability in location is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment assembly incorporates dynamic elements including the adjustable strap clamp with compression members that can be positioned at different locations, and the contoured body that can accommodate various steering column geometries. This allows the attachment point to be adjusted to different positions along the steering column while maintaining a secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The contoured body is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate different steering column geometries and diameters. The strap clamp system provides multi-functional capability by allowing both adjustment to different positions and secure locking, making the attachment assembly versatile for various installation scenarios.
3Reliability
If compression members are added to engage the flexible insert, then secure locking is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The strap clamp and securing bracket are merged into an integrated assembly where the strap clamp provides compression through the contoured body while the securing bracket simultaneously attaches to the dashboard. This merging reduces the total number of separate components while achieving both secure locking and reliable attachment in a unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The contoured body functions as a flexible element that can be compressed by the strap clamp's compression members. This flexible component deforms to engage with the steering column's geometry while maintaining the compression force, providing secure locking without requiring rigid, complex mechanical joints.
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 versatile and precise location of the steering column, accommodating various geometries and diameters, and provides a secure, adjustable solution that avoids misalignment issues by using a flexible insert and strap clamp with compression members to lock the column in place.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of adjustable compression members adjustably located in the first and second upper sides to engage with the flexible insert. Spaced first and second radius ends extend along the flexible insert opening that compress and lock the steering column attachment assembly to the column when the compression members engage the flexible insert
Implementation Method 2
a penannular flexible insert having inner and outer portions. The inner portion is contoured to the geometry of a steering column and includes an opening for receiving the steering column
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column attachment assembly is disclosed for adjustably locating and securing after market steering columns to an automotive vehicle. The attachment assembly comprises a penannular flexible insert having inner and outer portions. The outer portion of the flexible insert comprises a plurality of sides. The attachment assembly also comprises a strap clamp having inner and outer regions and an opening provided to the inner region for receiving the flexible insert. The inner region and outer region are formed from a plurality of sides corresponding to the plurality of sides of the outer portion of the flexible insert such that the plurality of sides of the flexible insert and corresponding plurality of sides of the inner region of the strap clamp are in contact during assembly. The strap clamp features a plurality of adjustable compression members that engage the flexible insert.