Steering Column Locking Layout for Compact Telescopic Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column locking devices require a large radial installation space and hinder flexible adaptation, limiting the design possibilities of telescopic casings in steer-by-wire systems.
Innovation Solution
A locking device is arranged on an intermediate sleeve tube between inner and outer sleeve tubes, with a movably mounted locking element that engages transversely to the longitudinal axis, allowing for a compact and flexible locking mechanism without additional space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking device with engagement element and locking element is arranged between inner and outer casing tubes, then reliable locking of the steering spindle is achieved, but radial installation space is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is nested within the intermediate casing tube, which itself is nested between the inner and outer casing tubes. The locking element is movably mounted inside the intermediate casing tube, utilizing the existing telescopic structure space rather than adding external components. This nesting approach achieves reliable locking while minimizing radial space occupation.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of arranging the locking device in the radial direction between casing tubes, the invention transitions to the longitudinal dimension by placing the locking device on the intermediate casing tube and using longitudinal movement of the locking element for engagement. This dimensional shift reduces radial installation space while maintaining locking functionality.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a locking device is added to block rotation of the steering spindle, then steering wheel stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate casing tube serves multiple functions: it provides the structural framework for the telescopic adjustment mechanism and simultaneously houses the locking device. The locking element utilizes the existing telescopic movement of the intermediate casing tube to achieve automatic engagement and disengagement, eliminating the need for separate actuation mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the telescopic position of the intermediate casing tube. When the steering column is retracted to the stowed position, the locking element automatically moves into the locked position without requiring additional actuators or control systems, thereby maintaining simplicity while ensuring stability.
3Volume of moving object
If the steering column is made telescopically adjustable for compact stowage, then space utilization is improved, but design flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The casing structure is segmented into three telescopic sections: inner casing tube, intermediate casing tube, and outer casing tube. This segmentation allows independent movement and locking of each section, providing both compact stowage capability and design flexibility. The intermediate casing tube can be independently adjusted and locked at different positions, enabling versatile configuration options.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device incorporates a movably mounted locking element that can dynamically transition between locked and unlocked positions. This dynamic design allows the steering column to be easily adjusted between different telescopic positions and securely locked, maintaining both compact stowage and design adaptability for various steering column configurations.
Data Source
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Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention relates to a steering column (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising a steering shaft (4) which is mounted to rotate in an inner casing tube (33) of a casing unit (3) about a longitudinal axis (L) which extends in a longitudinal direction, said inner casing tube (33) being received telescopically in an outer casing tube (31) so as to be adjustable in the longitudinal direction, wherein a locking device (7) comprises an engagement element (74) which is attached to the steering shaft (4) and which can be brought into releasable locking engagement with a corresponding blocking element (73, 75) of the casing unit (3) in order to block a rotation of the steering shaft (4) relative to the casing unit (3). To specify an improved locking device which more particularly permits a more effective and more flexible design, according to the invention the locking device (7) is arranged on an intermediate casing tube (32) which is arranged in a telescopically adjustable manner between the inner casing tube (33) and the outer casing tube (31).