Steering Column Track Deviation Sensing With Low-Play Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensor arrangements for detecting deviations from a defined path in vehicle steering columns are prone to frequent failures due to play and friction between parts, leading to reduced service life and retrofitting challenges.
Innovation Solution
A track deviation sensing mechanism comprising a sleeve, a sensor with a ring, and locking parts made of polymeric, composite, or metal materials, which minimizes play and friction through snap or interference fit arrangements to accurately detect the degree of rotation of the steering column.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional sensor arrangements are used to detect path deviation, then the sensing mechanism can detect steering column rotation, but play and friction between parts cause frequent failures and reduced service life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical sensor arrangements with a magnetic sensing system. A magnetic sensor detects the position of a magnet attached to the steering column, eliminating mechanical contact between sensing components. This substitution removes friction and wear between parts, solving the reliability issue while maintaining the ability to detect steering column rotation for path deviation correction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnet as an intermediary element that transfers rotational position information from the steering column to the magnetic sensor without direct mechanical contact. The magnet rotates with the steering column while the magnetic sensor remains stationary, allowing position detection without friction between the sensing components themselves
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional sensor mounting arrangements are used, then the sensor can be installed on the steering column, but installation and retrofitting are complex and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing mechanism is divided into separate modular components: a magnet that attaches to the steering column and a magnetic sensor that mounts independently. This segmentation allows each component to be installed separately using simple mounting methods, facilitating easy retrofitting without requiring complex integrated mounting arrangements
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic sensor and magnet arrangement is designed to be universally applicable to different steering column configurations. The components can be mounted in various positions and orientations, allowing the same sensing mechanism to be retrofitted onto different vehicle models and steering column types without requiring custom-designed mounting arrangements
Data Source
AI summary
A track deviation sensing mechanism for a steering column includes a sleeve having an inner wall and an outer wall defining an annular opening. The inner wall defines a plurality of internal splines and the sleeve receives the steering column. A sensor has a first axial opening, and a ring is disposed within the first axial opening. The ring defines a second axial opening for accommodating the sleeve. A first part is functionally disposed between the sleeve and the ring such that the first part is lockingly connected to the sleeve and the ring. The first part has a third axial opening. A second part has a fourth axial opening and locks the sensor and the first part at a prerequisite configuration. The first axial opening, the second axial opening, the third axial opening, the fourth axial opening and the annular opening are coaxial.