Steering Column Switch Module Interface for Stable Object Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column designs lack a simple and space-saving method to create a stable holder for objects, such as mobile devices, while minimizing structural changes to the switch module.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical interface is integrated into the switch module as a separate component with an H-shaped contour for secure fastening, allowing easy attachment and detachment of holders, and featuring a softer material for the holder to prevent damage to the interface component.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a holder for objects is integrated directly into the switch module, then structural stability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The holder for objects is separated from the switch module and implemented as an independent attachment component. This segmentation allows the switch module to maintain its original structural integrity while the holder can be independently designed, manufactured, and installed, thereby reducing overall device complexity without compromising structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
A mechanical interface with H-shaped contour acts as an intermediary between the switch module and the holder. This intermediate component provides a standardized attachment mechanism that simplifies the connection process, reduces manufacturing complexity, and ensures stable structural integration through the contoured fastening system.
2Strength
If the holder is made of harder material to ensure durability, then strength is improved, but the risk of damaging the interface component increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is designed with local quality differentiation: the main body is made of harder material for durability and strength, while the regions interacting with the mechanical interface are made of softer material. This localized material property variation ensures the holder maintains its strength while preventing damage to the interface component during attachment and usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder utilizes composite material construction, combining harder materials for structural components with softer materials for interface-contacting surfaces. This composite approach allows the holder to exhibit both high strength for durability and low hardness at critical contact points, thereby preventing damage to the mechanical interface while maintaining overall structural integrity.
3Ease of manufacture
If the mechanical interface is designed as a separate component, then ease of manufacture and assembly are improved, but structural stability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical interface with H-shaped contour is pre-designed and pre-formed as a separate component with integrated fastening features. This preliminary preparation of the attachment mechanism simplifies the manufacturing process by allowing the interface to be produced independently using optimized processes, while the contoured design ensures stable structural connection when assembled with the holder.
4Reliability
If the contour for fastening is complex to achieve secure holding in multiple directions, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical interface employs an asymmetric H-shaped contour design where the vertical legs provide restraint in the transverse direction while the horizontal portions provide restraint in the longitudinal direction. This asymmetric geometry naturally achieves secure multi-directional holding through its inherent shape, reducing the need for high manufacturing precision compared to symmetric complex designs while maintaining high reliability.
Data Source
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Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a steering column with a switch module (4) at least partially surrounding the steering column. The switch module (4) has at least one actuating lever (4a, 4b, 4c) for activating at least one function. The invention is characterized in that a mechanical interface for attaching at least one bracket (7) for an object (O) is provided in the area of the switch module (4). Said interface is designed as a separate component (5) mounted on the switch module (4).