Steering Column Lock Mounting Bracket Anti-Tamper Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Steering column locking mechanisms are vulnerable to tampering, as perpetrators may attempt to remove or disable the locking mechanism to steal a vehicle, highlighting a need for enhanced security features that prevent unauthorized access and rotation of the steering shaft.
Innovation Solution
A steering column assembly with a lock mounting bracket and locking mechanism, featuring a movable member that selectively engages a locking feature on the steering shaft assembly, providing an anti-theft configuration that inhibits rotation and is resistant to shearing or prying attempts through a unique fastener arrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional locking mechanism is used in the steering column, then the basic locking function is provided, but the mechanism is vulnerable to tampering and removal attempts
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is nested within a lock mounting bracket that is itself nested within the steering column jacket assembly. The bracket provides an additional structural layer that protects the locking mechanism from external tampering attempts while maintaining a compact overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system is segmented into distinct functional components: the locking mechanism itself, the lock mounting bracket, and the jacket assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while providing modular protection against tampering.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the locking mechanism is made more secure against removal, then anti-theft protection is improved, but the complexity of the mounting structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mounting bracket is designed with pre-formed openings and structural features that prevent shearing and prying attempts before they can compromise the locking mechanism. The bracket's geometry is specifically configured to deflect or distribute applied forces, providing preliminary resistance to harmful tampering actions.
3Reliability
If the locking mechanism is fully enclosed for security, then protection against tampering is improved, but access for operation and maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is designed with pre-positioned openings that align with the locking mechanism components, allowing operation and maintenance access to be prepared in advance. These openings enable necessary access while maintaining overall enclosure for security.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column assembly includes a jacket assembly and a bracket. The bracket has a first end portion defining a first opening and a second end portion defining a second opening. The second end portion overlaps the first end portion such that the second opening and the first opening are proximately aligned.