Steering Column Rake Lock Mechanism Packaging

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle steering column rake adjustment mechanisms often lack the necessary packaging space for a column-mounted shift mechanism due to the asymmetrical placement of locking components, which restricts adjustability and convenience.

Innovation Solution

A steering column assembly with a rake adjustment lever and teeth locking mechanism located on one side, allowing for a shift mechanism to be mounted on the opposite side, utilizing a pin and cam assembly to facilitate vertical adjustment and locking of the steering column, enabling symmetrical packaging and clearance for the shift mechanism.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the locking mechanism is mounted on the opposite side of the steering column from the rake lever, then the steering column can be adjusted vertically, but packaging space for a column-mounted shift mechanism is precluded

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverake adjustabilityVSAvoidpackaging space for shift mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism components (cam assembly, teeth locking mechanism, pin) are merged and consolidated on the same side of the steering column as the rake adjustment lever. This combines multiple functional elements into a unified arrangement on one side, freeing up the opposite side for the shift mechanism while maintaining rake adjustability functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the locking mechanism components are located on the opposite side of the steering column, then rake adjustment is enabled, but the assembly layout is asymmetrical and restricts adjustability

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveadjustabilityVSAvoidasymmetrical packaging

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent intentionally creates an asymmetrical arrangement where all locking mechanism components are positioned on the same side as the rake lever. This deliberate asymmetry simplifies the overall packaging by consolidating components, making the assembly more adaptable and easier to manufacture while providing clear space on the opposite side for the shift mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

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

This design allows for the inclusion of a column-mounted shift mechanism while maintaining adjustability, enhancing driver convenience by optimizing packaging space and improving the overall assembly layout.

Implementation Method 1

a cam assembly operatively coupled to the rake adjustment lever and the pin

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCam mechanism: Cam

Implementation Method 2

a teeth locking mechanism operatively coupled to the pin

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical interlocking: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS11820422B2Rake lock mechanism for steering column

Publication Date: 2023.11.21 STEERING SOLUTIONS IP HOLDING CORP

AI summary

A steering column assembly includes a jacket pivotable about a rake axis. The steering column assembly also includes a pin having a rake adjustment lever operatively coupled to a first end of the pin, the rake adjustment lever on a first side of the jacket, the pin moveable along a first axis between a locked position and an unlocked position. The steering column assembly further includes a cam assembly operatively coupled to the rake adjustment lever and the pin and located on the first side of the jacket. The steering column assembly yet further includes a teeth locking mechanism operatively coupled to the pin and located on the first side of the jacket.