Steering Column Adjustment Mechanism with Guide Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column mountings in vehicles have limited adjustment range and are slow to adjust, particularly in the utility vehicle sector, where a larger and more rapid adjustment is required for ease of entry and exit, and are often bulky and costly to produce.
Innovation Solution
A device with a bearing bracket and guide means, including movable guide plates and pins, allows for adjustable height and inclination of the steering column housing, enabling a greater adjustment range while maintaining compact dimensions and scalability, using a combination of guide slots and fastening devices for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If electric motor adjustment is used for steering column, then adjustment is automated, but adjustment speed is slow and adjustment range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment system is divided into two independent parts: an electric motor for automated height adjustment and a manual cranking mechanism for rapid inclination adjustment. This segmentation allows each mechanism to optimize for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between automation and adjustment speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering column mounting transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic adjustable position through the combined action of electric motor (for slow height adjustment) and manual cranking (for fast inclination adjustment), enabling the system to adapt its adjustment characteristics based on operational needs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual pivoting of steering column is used, then large adjustment range is achieved, but device dimensions increase and entry/exit is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The steering column adjustment is extended from single-dimensional height adjustment to two-dimensional adjustment by adding inclination adjustment through guide plates that move in axial direction, achieving large adjustment range without increasing device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide plates are nested within the bearing bracket structure, with guide slots integrated into the bracket walls. This nesting allows the adjustment mechanism to be compact while still providing extensive adjustment range through the axial movement of guide plates.
3Ease of operation
If conventional guide elements are used for steering column adjustment, then adjustment function is provided, but production cost increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide plates are designed with uniform structure and material properties, using simple rectangular plates with guide slots rather than complex curved surfaces or precision-machined components. This homogeneity simplifies manufacturing and reduces production costs while maintaining the adjustment function.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide plates can be produced using standard manufacturing processes and designs that can be replicated across different vehicle models, reducing development costs and simplifying production. The same basic guide plate design serves multiple adjustment positions.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering system for a motor vehicle includes a steering column and a device for adjusting the steering column. The device includes a bearing block, a first guide mechanism, and a second guide mechanism. A housing of the steering column is adjustably mounted in the bearing block. The first guide mechanism is configured to adjust a height of the steering column in the bearing block. The second guide mechanism is configured to adjust an inclination of the housing, and includes at least one first guide plate and at least one second guide plate that are each movably connected to the housing of the steering column and to the bearing block so as to be axially movable with an adjustment of the inclination of the housing.