Steering Column Sleeve Structure for Compact Post Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering columns have covering devices with high dimensions and limited capacity to cover the upper post of the steering shaft, leading to inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A multi-sleeve covering device with axially locked sleeves and springs allows for a compact design that effectively covers the upper post of the steering shaft, with a minimum length of 120 mm between the control panel and gearbox control assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single covering device is used for the upper post, then the structure is simple, but the covering capacity is limited and dimensions are large
Solution Approach 1:
The covering device is divided into multiple sleeves (first sleeve, second sleeve, third sleeve) that can be stacked axially along the upper post. Each sleeve covers a specific axial segment, and together they provide comprehensive coverage with reduced individual and total dimensions compared to a single large covering device.
2Length of stationary object
If the covering device is made compact, then the dimensional space is reduced, but the capacity to cover the upper post is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The covering device transitions from a single-plane coverage approach to a multi-axial stacking approach. Multiple sleeves are arranged axially along the upper post, utilizing the axial dimension to provide comprehensive coverage while maintaining compact radial dimensions and reduced overall length.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple sleeves are stacked axially, then the covering capacity increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sleeves are nested axially along the upper post, with each sleeve positioned in sequence. The sleeves can be locked together using locking elements, creating a compact stacked structure that provides enhanced covering capacity while managing complexity through systematic nesting rather than random arrangement.
4Ease of manufacture
If the covering device is made of plastic or fabric material, then the manufacturing is simple, but the structural strength and locking capability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The covering device combines plastic material sleeves with metal locking elements. The plastic sleeves provide ease of manufacture and coverage, while the metal locking elements (locking protrusions and locking recesses) provide the necessary structural strength and secure locking capability to maintain the stacked configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column for road vehicles having a steering shaft; a transmission shaft, which is housed in the steering shaft, is provided with a steering wheel and has an upper segment, which projects out of, and is coupled in a rotary and axially sliding manner to an upper post of the steering shaft; and a covering device to cover at least part of the upper post of the steering shaft with at least two sleeves, which are connected one to a dashboard of a road vehicle and one to the steering wheel, and are coupled to one another in a sliding manner so as to move between an extracted position and a retracted position.