Steering Column Rake Bracket Coupling for Compact Adjustment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Steering column assemblies require significant packaging space and employ multiple components that need staking or welding for adjustment, which complicates the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
A rake bracket coupling assembly with a lower jacket and rake bushings that facilitate movement of the steering column about a pivot axis, using a rake bolt and rake plate to simplify the assembly and reduce the number of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional steering column adjustment mechanisms are used, then the steering column can be adjusted for rake and translation, but the packaging space required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rake adjustment mechanism and translation mechanism into a single integrated coupling assembly. The coupling assembly includes a coupling member with a first interface for the rake mechanism and a second interface for the translation mechanism, merging multiple adjustment functions into one compact unit that reduces overall packaging space while maintaining full adjustability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are used for steering column adjustment, then adjustment functionality is achieved, but the assembly process becomes complex requiring staking or welding
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple adjustment components are merged into a single coupling assembly that integrates the rake bracket, translation mechanism, and fastening features. This integration eliminates the need for separate staking or welding operations, as the coupling assembly uses a unified fastening system that secures all adjustment mechanisms simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling assembly serves multiple functions within a single component: it provides rake adjustment, translation adjustment, and structural coupling between the steering column segments. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of parts and simplifies the assembly process by eliminating the need for multiple specialized components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components requiring staking or welding are used, then steering column adjustment is achieved, but manufacturing time and production complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly consolidates multiple adjustment mechanisms into one unit that can be installed as a single component. This merging reduces assembly time by eliminating sequential installation steps and complex fastening operations like staking or welding, thereby improving production efficiency while maintaining full adjustment functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A bushing for a steering column rake bracket assembly includes a flange portion. The bushing also includes a tubular segment having an inner wall defining a central hole and an outer wall. The outer wall of the tubular segment includes a first flat outer surface. The outer wall also includes a second flat outer surface. The outer wall further includes a first curved end surface connecting the first flat outer surface and the second flat outer surface. The outer wall yet further includes a second curved end surface connecting the first flat outer surface and the second flat outer surface.