Steering Column Lever Position Detection via Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional adjustable steering columns lack a reliable mechanism to detect and warn operators if the adjustment lever is in an unlocked position, which can lead to unintended adjustments during critical events like crashes.
Innovation Solution
A steering column assembly that includes a lever position detection assembly with a cam and detection switch system, which indicates to a controller whether the lever is locked or unlocked, triggering warnings or automatic locking if necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a lever-based adjustment assembly is used to lock/unlock the steering column, then the steering column can be adjusted between locked and unlocked positions, but there is no mechanism to detect or warn operators if the lever is in the unlocked position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a detection assembly that provides feedback about the lever position to a controller. The detection assembly includes a sensor that detects whether the lever is in the locked or unlocked position, and the controller receives this information to determine the adjustment assembly state. This feedback mechanism resolves the contradiction by maintaining the simple lever operation while adding reliable detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection assembly and controller between the lever mechanism and the operator. The detection assembly includes components such as a sensor or switch that indirectly detects the lever position without interfering with the direct mechanical operation. This intermediary system provides reliable detection while preserving the ease of manual lever operation.
2Reliability
If the steering column is designed for optimal performance with the lever in locked position, then performance is optimized, but unintended adjustments can occur if the lever is accidentally left unlocked
Solution Approach 1:
The detection assembly provides continuous feedback to the controller about whether the lever is in the locked position. The controller can use this information to monitor the steering column state and detect unintended movements or warnings, ensuring optimal performance is maintained and harmful unintended adjustments are prevented.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of the lever position before impact events occur. The detection assembly is continuously monitoring the locked/unlocked state, so if the lever is accidentally left unlocked, the system can detect this condition in advance and alert the operator or take preventive action before an impact event causes unintended adjustments.
3Reliability
If a detection assembly is added to detect lever position, then reliable detection of locked/unlocked status is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection assembly provides feedback about lever position to a controller. By using a feedback-based approach rather than complex mechanical interlocking systems, the patent achieves reliable detection with relatively simple components such as sensors, switches, or magnetic detectors that can sense the lever position without adding significant mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical detection mechanisms with non-mechanical sensing methods. Instead of using mechanical linkages, gears, or interlocks to detect lever position, the detection assembly uses sensors, switches, or magnetic fields to sense the lever state electronically, thereby achieving reliable detection while minimizing added mechanical complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a steering column assembly is provided. The steering column assembly includes a steering column, a mounting bracket, an actuator rotatably coupled to the mounting bracket, the actuator rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position, and a detection assembly configured to detect when the actuator is in the unlocked position.