Steering Column Sleeve End Stop for Universal Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column adjustment systems require complex machining and additional processing for end stops, limiting flexibility and increasing costs, as they need to be tailored to specific thread pitches and lengths, making them less adaptable to various vehicle configurations.
Innovation Solution
A steering column design featuring a threaded rod with a sleeve end stop that is pressed onto the external thread, eliminating the need for additional machining and allowing universal use across different configurations, with the sleeve being adaptable in length and material to fit various steering column requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical end stop is provided on the threaded rod with specific machining, then the adjustment range is defined, but the structure becomes complex and machining costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using a simple sleeve instead of a complex machined end stop. The sleeve is a basic cylindrical component that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed, eliminating the need for complex machining operations on the threaded rod while still providing reliable adjustment range definition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of the end stop from a fixed machined feature on the threaded rod to a separate sleeve component with adjustable positioning. This allows the end stop function to be achieved through a different geometric parameter approach - using the sleeve's outer diameter to contact the adjustment mechanism rather than a machined shoulder or stop on the rod itself.
2Manufacturing precision
If the end stop is tailored to specific thread pitches and lengths, then the adjustment is precise, but the adaptability to various vehicle configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the sleeve as a standard component that can be used with different threaded rods regardless of their specific pitch or length. The sleeve's internal diameter is designed to accommodate the threaded rod while its external dimensions provide the end stop function, making it a universal solution that adapts to various vehicle configurations without requiring custom machining for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the end stop function from the threaded rod by using a separate sleeve component. This segmentation allows the threaded rod to be standardized while the sleeve can be adjusted or selected to match specific application requirements, thereby maintaining both precision and adaptability across different vehicle configurations.
3Reliability
If additional machining is performed on the threaded rod for the end stop, then the end stop is secure, but production time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the end stop function with a separate sleeve component rather than integrating it into the threaded rod through additional machining. This combining of functions into a distinct part allows the threaded rod to be manufactured independently without extra machining operations, while the sleeve provides the end stop function through simple assembly, thereby improving production efficiency while maintaining security.
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 simplifies the adjustment mechanism, reduces production costs, and enhances flexibility by allowing the steering column to be easily adapted to different vehicle configurations without complex machining, ensuring reliable and secure adjustment without the need for specific thread processing.
Implementation Method 1
The connection of the sleeve and the threaded rod is preferably made by means of a longitudinal press fit
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~8
AI summary
The present invention relates to a steering column (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising a supporting unit (10) which is connectable to the chassis of the motor vehicle, and an actuating unit (16) which is held on said supporting unit and rotatably supports a steering shaft (14), wherein the position of the actuating unit (16) in relation to the supporting unit (10) is adjustable by means of an adjustment drive (2, 2'), and the adjustment drive (2, 2') has a threaded stud (4, 4') with an external screw thread (42) which is in engagement with an internal screw thread (32) of a spindle nut (3) of the adjustment drive (2, 2'), and wherein the threaded stud (4, 4') has an end fitting for limiting the movement of the spindle nut (3) along the threaded stud (4, 4'), wherein the end stop is formed by a sleeve (5) pressed onto the external screw thread (42) of the threaded stud (4, 4').