Steering Column Outer Column Slit Reinforcement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Steering column devices with axial slits in the outer column compromise the rigidity and strength, particularly when a steering lock device is attached, leading to inadequate locking rigidity and varying forces required for operation.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating reinforcement parts at the peripheral edge of the slit in the outer column, such as closed end sections and ribs, to enhance the rigidity and strength while allowing easy elastic deformation, and adjusting the contact area between the body side upper bracket and the clamp portion to reduce force variations during telescopic movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an axial slit is formed in the outer column to enable elastic deformation for clamping the inner column, then the clamping reliability is improved, but the rigidity and strength of the outer column deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a reinforcement part specifically at the peripheral edge of the slit opening, rather than uniformly strengthening the entire outer column. This localized reinforcement maintains the overall flexibility needed for clamping while providing targeted strength where the slit would otherwise compromise structural integrity. The reinforcement part is positioned precisely at the stress concentration zone (the slit periphery) to counteract the weakening effect locally without affecting the global elastic deformation capability.
2Reliability
If an axial slit is formed in the outer column to enable elastic deformation for clamping the inner column, then the clamping reliability is improved, but the rigidity of steering locking deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement part is strategically placed at the peripheral edge of the slit opening, creating a localized stiffening zone that specifically addresses steering locking rigidity requirements. This local reinforcement provides the necessary structural support for the steering lock device to function effectively, while the rest of the outer column maintains its elastic deformation capability for clamping operations.
3Force
If the outer column is radially contracted to clamp the inner column axially unmovably, then the clamping force is improved, but the force required for operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement part is pre-formed as an integral part of the outer column structure, prepared in advance during manufacturing. This preliminary action eliminates the need for additional assembly steps or complex mechanisms to achieve the clamping function, thereby reducing the operational force required while maintaining effective clamping capability.
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 reinforcement increases the rigidity and strength of the outer column, reduces the force required to operate the steering wheel, and maintains secure clamping of the inner column, improving steering stability and locking rigidity.
Implementation Method 1
the outer column is clamped from its outer periphery causing the outer column to be elastically deformed in its slit portion
Implementation Method 2
a reinforcement part is provided at least at a peripheral edge of an end section of the slit formed in the outer column
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column device where an inner column can be reliably clamped and sufficient rigidity and strength of an outer column can be achieved. A semi-circular arc rib (132) is formed on the peripheral edge of a closed end section (131) of a slit (13). The rib (132) is substantially semi-circular are-shaped and projects outward from an outer peripheral surface (15A) of an outer column (1). Further, linear ribs (133A, 133B) extend linearly toward the vehicle body front side so as to be continuous from the vehicle body front side of the semi-circular arc rib (132). The semi-circular arc rib (132) and the linear ribs (133A, 133B) reinforce the peripheral edge of the slit (13) of the outer column (1) whose rigidity and strength are impaired. Thus the rigidity and strength of the outer column (1) are improved.