Steering Column Protrusion Geometry for Stiffness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column assemblies lack optimal eigenfrequency and stiffness, limiting the smooth and adjustable movement of the steering wheel along the longitudinal axis, which affects the overall performance and driver comfort.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates an outer jacket with protrusions that have curved contact surfaces and specific angular measurements, supporting a telescopic inner jacket, and an actuator for precise longitudinal movement, enhancing eigenfrequency and stiffness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional steering column assemblies are used, then the structure is simple, but the eigenfrequency and stiffness are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The steering column assembly is divided into multiple functional segments: outer jacket, inner jacket, telescopic mechanism with protrusions, and actuator system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for stiffness and eigenfrequency while maintaining overall structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The inner jacket is nested within the outer jacket, with the telescopic mechanism positioned between them. The protrusions extend from the outer jacket into the cavity to support the inner jacket, creating a nested configuration that maximizes stiffness within limited space
2Reliability
If conventional steering column assemblies are used, then the structure is simple, but the eigenfrequency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusions are pre-configured with specific angular measurements (1-15 degrees) and curved contact surfaces before assembly. This preliminary configuration ensures optimal eigenfrequency characteristics are built into the structure, eliminating the need for post-assembly adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The design optimizes specific geometric parameters of the protrusions, including angular measurements between 1-15 degrees, curved contact surface radii, and spacing between protrusions. These parameter changes directly influence the eigenfrequency and stiffness of the telescopic mechanism
3Adaptability or versatility
If the inner jacket is made telescopic for adjustability, then driver comfort improves, but the structural stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusions act as intermediary elements between the outer and inner jackets. They provide controlled support points that enable telescopic movement while maintaining structural stability through their curved contact surfaces and optimized angular configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The telescopic mechanism transitions from a static structure to a dynamic system that can adjust along the longitudinal axis. The protrusions are designed to accommodate controlled movement while maintaining stability, allowing the system to adapt between fixed and movable states
Data Source
AI summary
One steering column assembly includes an outer jacket having a first end, a cavity defined by an inner surface extending from the first end, and protrusions extending from the inner surface into the cavity. Each protrusion includes a front end at or adjacent the first end, a rear end, and a curved contact surface telescopically supporting an inner jacket. The front end has first and second endpoints, the rear end has third and fourth endpoints, and one side connects the first and third endpoints while another side connects the second and fourth endpoints. Each protrusion is configured such that, when the front and rear ends and the sides are projected onto a flat surface and an angle is measured between one straight line passing through the first and third endpoints and another straight line passing through the second and fourth endpoints, the measurement is from one to fifteen degrees.