Steering Column Pivot Support Using Extruded Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing manufacturing processes for steering columns are complex and require dedicated machining operations, making them costly and time-consuming, especially when incorporating features like energy absorption and adjustable components.
Innovation Solution
A steering column design featuring a separate supporting element that can be non-releasably fastened to the casing tube without machining, utilizing extruded profiles for cost-effective production and energy absorption during impacts, with a fastening structure formed during the extrusion process and enhanced by a form-fitting connection and energy absorption devices like sliding members and tubular bushings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If bearing for pivot axis and helical slotted arrangement are directly incorporated into outer casing tube, then functional integration is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases due to dedicated machining operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the steering column into separate functional modules: the outer casing tube (extruded profile) and a separate bearing assembly containing the pivot axis bearing and helical slotted arrangement. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured using optimized processes (extrusion for the tube, specialized manufacturing for the bearing assembly) without requiring complex machining of the extruded tube itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing assembly with pivot axis and helical slotted arrangement is extracted from the outer casing tube and implemented as a separate, removable unit. This extraction eliminates the need for dedicated machining operations on the extruded profile while maintaining all necessary functions, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If extruded profiles are used for steering column, then production costs and weight are reduced, but manufacturing precision and functional integration become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary bearing assembly that mediates between the simple extruded outer casing tube and the precision-requiring pivot axis functions. This intermediary component carries the precision features (bearing, helical slots) while allowing the main tube to remain a simple extruded profile, thus maintaining both cost-effectiveness and functional precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated machining operations are performed on extruded workpiece, then functional elements are achieved, but production time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing assembly with all precision functional elements (pivot axis bearing, helical slotted arrangement) is pre-manufactured as a complete sub-assembly using specialized processes. This preliminary action allows the main extruded tube to be produced quickly without interruption for machining operations, significantly improving overall production efficiency while maintaining full functional capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column may comprise a casing tube and a steering spindle that is mounted in the casing tube so as to be rotatable about a longitudinal axis. The steering column may further comprise fastening elements for fastening the steering column on the vehicle body. The steering column may include a pivot bearing for height adjustment of the steering column. The pivot bearing may be provided on a region of the steering column that is remote from the steering wheel. Further, the pivot bearing may be disposed or formed in a supporting element that is fastened non-releasably on the casing tube.