Steering Column Anti-Rotation Pin Detent Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anti-rotation pin designs for steering columns face challenges with high 'push in' and 'pull out' effort requirements, low retention qualities, and premature disassembly during transit or before final assembly, leading to instability and security issues.
Innovation Solution
An anti-rotation assembly comprising a bushing and a pin with a detent mechanism that engages the bushing, allowing for secure coupling and relative rotation limitation between the tubular jacket and steering shaft, using a stamped pin with a rectangular cross-section and retractable tabs for enhanced retention and ease of assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a cylindrical pin design with associated bushing is used, then the anti-rotation function is provided, but high push in and pull out effort requirements occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the pin assembly into separate functional components: a pin with detent features and a bushing with corresponding engagement features. This segmentation allows the pin to be inserted through the bushing with controlled retention, reducing the force required for both installation and removal compared to a permanently coupled cylindrical design.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin and bushing transition from a static permanently coupled design to a dynamic assembly where the pin can be inserted and retained temporarily. The detent features provide controlled engagement that maintains the pin in position during operation but allows for easier removal when needed, creating a dynamic retention system.
2Reliability
If features are incorporated to permanently couple the pin and bushing, then retention quality is improved, but high push in and pull out effort requirements occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by providing retention features (detents) only at specific locations on the pin and bushing rather than along the entire length. This localized engagement provides sufficient retention quality to prevent premature failure while allowing the pin to be removed with reasonable effort when installation or removal is intended.
3Reliability
If a cylindrical pin design is used, then the structure is simple, but low retention qualities occur causing premature fall out
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces asymmetric detent features on the pin and corresponding engagement features on the bushing, breaking the symmetry of a simple cylindrical design. These asymmetric features provide positive retention in the inserted position while maintaining relative structural simplicity, preventing premature fall-out without requiring complex retention mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment of the invention, an anti-rotation assembly for a steering column is provided. The anti-rotation assembly includes a bushing and a pin having a detent for engaging the bushing when the pin is inserted into the bushing.