Steering Column Restriction Assembly with Interlocking Straps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column assemblies in vehicles lack effective mechanisms to maintain the steering column in a fixed position during driving, particularly in scenarios where adjustments are needed to prevent unintended movement.
Innovation Solution
A steering column assembly with a restriction assembly that includes a first strap with locking teeth, a second strap with complementary locking teeth, and a cam member, which are operatively connected to a mounting bracket and jacket assembly to inhibit movement relative to the mounting bracket, ensuring the steering column remains stable during adjustments and collapse events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a restriction assembly with locking teeth and cam member is added to the steering column assembly, then the steering column stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The restriction assembly is divided into separate functional components: a first strap with first locking teeth, a second strap with second and third locking teeth, and a cam member with complementary engagement members. Each component performs a specific locking function, allowing the system to achieve stable multi-directional restraint while maintaining modular simplicity in manufacturing and assembly.
2Stability of the object's composition
If locking hardware is incorporated to restrict movement, then the steering column position stability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cam member is designed to dynamically engage and disengage the locking teeth through rotational movement. During normal operation, the cam member maintains engagement with the locking teeth to prevent movement. When adjustment is needed, the cam member can be rotated to disengage the locking teeth, allowing movement, and then rotated back to re-engage for stable locking. This dynamic mechanism provides both stability and operational flexibility.
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
The solution effectively locks the steering column in a fixed position, maintaining stability during driving and preventing unintended movement, while allowing for controlled adjustments through the use of an adjustment lever or actuator arm, enhancing safety and operational reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The cam member is pivotally connected to the first bracket. The cam member has a plurality of complementary engagement members that are configured to selectively engage the plurality of third locking teeth.
Implementation Method 2
The first strap defines a plurality of first locking teeth. The second strap defines a plurality of second locking teeth arranged to selectively engage the plurality of first locking teeth. The second strap defines a plurality of third locking teeth disposed opposite the plurality of second locking teeth.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column assembly includes a restriction assembly that is operatively connected to a jacket assembly and a mounting bracket. The restriction assembly includes a first strap and a second strap. The first strap has a pivot that extends into the mounting bracket and has a plurality of first locking teeth. The second strap is disposed transverse to the first strap. The second strap has a plurality of second locking teeth that face towards the plurality of first locking teeth and has a plurality of third locking teeth disposed opposite the plurality of second locking teeth.