Steering Column Adjustment Drive With Parallel Gear Axes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column adjustment drives require significant installation space and are complex to implement due to transverse bearing orientations and gear assemblies, making them inefficient in terms of space utilization and assembly complexity.
Innovation Solution
A steering column adjustment drive with a parallel alignment of the drive axis and spindle axis, utilizing a compact spur gearbox or helical gearbox configuration, which allows for a narrower construction and simplified assembly, optimizing installation space and reducing complexity through the use of idler gears and spring assemblies for smooth engagement and wear compensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a transverse bearing orientation and complex gear assembly are used in the adjustment drive, then the adjustment function is achieved, but the installation space requirement increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the traditional transverse bearing orientation to a parallel bearing orientation where the bearing axis is parallel to the spindle axis. This asymmetric redesign allows for a more compact drive mechanism that requires less installation space while maintaining the adjustment function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the geometric parameters of the gear assembly by using a parallel axis configuration instead of transverse axes. This parameter change enables the use of simpler, more compact gear components that reduce the overall footprint of the adjustment drive.
2Ease of operation
If a transverse bearing orientation and complex gear assembly are used in the adjustment drive, then the adjustment function is achieved, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The parallel bearing orientation creates a more straightforward mechanical layout compared to transverse bearings. This asymmetric configuration simplifies the assembly process by reducing the number of precise alignment requirements and simplifying the bearing mounting procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the bearing axis orientation parameter to be parallel rather than transverse, the patent simplifies the gear assembly design. This parameter modification reduces assembly complexity by enabling the use of standard, easier-to-install bearing and gear components.
3Area of stationary object
If a compact spur gearbox or helical gearbox configuration is used with parallel alignment, then the installation space is reduced and assembly is simplified, but the design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the gear transmission system into modular components (spur gearbox or helical gearbox) with standardized interfaces. This segmentation allows for compact design while maintaining ease of assembly and reducing overall design complexity through modularity.
Solution Approach 2:
The parallel bearing configuration creates a universal design platform that can accommodate different gearbox types (spur or helical) without requiring fundamental design changes. This multi-functionality approach reduces design complexity by using a standardized platform for various transmission options.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The parallel alignment of the drive and spindle axes enables a more compact and efficient adjustment drive, reducing installation space requirements and simplifying assembly, while enhancing passenger safety by optimizing available space and reducing wear and complexity in the adjustment mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
spring assemblies for smooth engagement and wear compensation
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle steering column includes a support unit and by which an actuator unit is held in which a steering spindle is mounted to rotate about a longitudinal axis. An adjustment drive is disposed between the support unit and the actuator unit and by which the actuator unit is adjustable. The adjustment drive has a threaded spindle which engages in a spindle nut and has a spindle axis. The spindle nut and the spindle are drivable by a servomotor to rotate in a mutually relative manner. The servomotor has a motor shaft which is coupled to a drive gear which is rotatable about a drive axis and which operatively engages with an output gear which is rotatable about the spindle axis and is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the spindle nut or the threaded spindle. The drive axis and the spindle axis are disposed mutually parallel.