Steering Column Clearance Adjustment for Plate Gap Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The gap between the middle and outer adjustment plates in existing clearance adjustment devices for steering columns reduces the stability of the steering column and vehicle driving stability due to low sliding friction resistance and relative displacement.
Innovation Solution
A clearance adjustment device with an inner, middle, and outer adjustment plate, featuring a first adjustment mechanism that adjusts the gap between the middle and outer plates in two perpendicular directions, increasing sliding friction resistance and reducing relative displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a clearance adjustment device with multiple adjustment plates is used to improve steering column stability, then the rigidity and stability of the steering column is improved, but a gap between the middle adjustment plate and outer adjustment plate reduces the stability and driving stability
Solution Approach 1:
A pressing mechanism is introduced as an intermediary component between the middle adjustment plate and outer adjustment plate. This pressing mechanism applies continuous pressure to eliminate the gap between the plates, ensuring stable contact and preventing relative displacement. The intermediary pressing mechanism transforms the multi-plate structure from having potential instability due to gaps into a stable, integrated assembly that maintains both rigidity and driving stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the middle adjustment plate and outer adjustment plate are kept separate to allow adjustment, then the clearance can be adjusted, but the gap between them causes low sliding friction resistance and relative displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing mechanism is designed with adjustable pressing force, allowing the system to dynamically adapt between two states: during adjustment, the plates can move relative to each other to change clearance; during operation, the pressing mechanism applies sufficient force to eliminate gaps and prevent unwanted displacement. This dynamic control of the pressing force enables the system to兼具 adjustment capability and positional stability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the adjustment plates are pressed together tightly to eliminate gaps, then the stability is improved, but the adjustment mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing mechanism is designed to automatically maintain the pressing force between the adjustment plates without requiring continuous external intervention. Once the desired clearance is set, the mechanism self-regulates to maintain stable contact, eliminating the need for complex control systems or continuous adjustment operations. This self-service capability simplifies the overall system while maintaining stable plate contact.
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
Enhances the stability of the steering column and vehicle by minimizing axial and radial displacement, improving the overall driving experience.
Implementation Method 1
increasing sliding friction resistance and reducing relative displacement
Data Source
AI summary
A clearance adjustment device for a steering column and a vehicle. The clearance adjustment device includes an inner adjustment plate, a middle adjustment plate and an outer adjustment plate, where the outer adjustment plate has a first groove, at least a portion of the middle adjustment plate is located in the first groove, and the inner adjustment plate is crimped to the middle adjustment plate. The clearance adjustment device further includes a first adjustment mechanism, where a first mounting groove is provided on a side of the middle adjustment plate facing a side wall of the first groove, and the first adjustment mechanism is located in the first mounting groove; and one end of the first adjustment mechanism is movably abutted against the side wall of the first groove in a first direction.