Steering Column Lateral Mechanism for Anti-Tipping Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable steering columns in automobiles face issues with insufficient or excessive operating clearance, making it difficult to adjust the steering wheel position without causing the steering wheel to tip, which is unsettling for drivers.
Innovation Solution
A device with a lateral mechanism that includes an anti-rotation system and a sliding clearance adjusting system, integrated into the clamping system, ensures proper alignment and prevents tipping by adjusting the clearance between the steering column and the vehicle structure, using a bearing member with tilted sides and a clamping assembly that adjusts the position of the steering column.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operating clearance is increased to enable smooth adjustment of the steering column, then the steering column can slide more easily, but the steering wheel exhibits apparent tipping which is unsettling for the driver
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic clearance adjustment mechanism that modifies the operating clearance between the tube-body and support assembly based on the clamping system state. When the clamping system is unlocked, the clearance is increased to facilitate smooth steering column adjustment. When locked, the clearance is reduced to eliminate steering wheel tipping, thus adapting the system behavior to different operational states
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameter of operating clearance dynamically. By adjusting the clearance parameter between the tube-body and support assembly, the system transitions between two states: sufficient clearance for smooth adjustment and minimal clearance for stable positioning, thereby resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and stability
2Stability of the object's composition
If the operating clearance is reduced to prevent steering wheel tipping, then the steering wheel remains stable, but the steering column becomes difficult to adjust
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operating clearance based on the operational state. During adjustment operations (unlocked state), the clearance is maintained at a sufficient level for smooth movement. Once positioning is complete and the clamping system locks, the clearance is reduced to prevent tipping, thus optimizing both adjustment ease and positioning stability at different times
3Stability of the object's composition
If a separate clearance adjustment mechanism is added to control the operating clearance, then the steering wheel tipping is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the clearance adjustment function with the existing clamping system. The same actuator and mechanical components that control the locked/unlocked states also control the operating clearance, eliminating the need for a separate clearance adjustment mechanism. This integration maintains steering wheel stability while avoiding additional complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping system is designed to perform multiple functions: both clamping the steering column in position and adjusting the operating clearance between the tube-body and support assembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated clearance adjustment components, thereby preventing steering wheel tipping without increasing device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
According to the disclosure, the steering column comprises a steering shaft rotatingly mounted in a tube-body provided on a side mount of a fixed bearing assembly via a lateral mechanism. The column can be adjusted in height and/or depth by an axis clamping system with a clamping rod (interacting with the lateral mechanism. The lateral mechanism comprises a bearing member provided between the side mount and a side member of the tube-body. A cross-section arranged between the bearing member and the side member enables counter-rotation. The lateral mechanism includes a system for adjusting the sliding clearance on the clamping rod using a bearing member and an adjustable clamping head.