Steering Column Energy Absorption Strap Integrated With Telescope Drive

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing steering column assemblies with energy absorption straps are complex and costly due to the number of components and assembly steps required, particularly in power telescoping systems where a separate energy absorption strap and drive bracket are needed.

Innovation Solution

The integration of an energy absorption strap directly with the telescope drive nut and upper jacket of the steering column assembly, eliminating the need for a separate telescope drive bracket and reducing the number of coupling components, thereby simplifying assembly and reducing costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate energy absorption strap and drive bracket are used in power telescoping steering columns, then the energy absorption function is achieved, but the number of parts and assembly complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy absorption functionVSAvoidnumber of parts and assembly complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The drive bracket and energy absorption strap are merged into a single integrated component. The drive bracket includes an energy absorption strap portion that is directly coupled to the upper jacket, eliminating the need for a separate energy absorption strap assembly. This integration reduces the number of parts and simplifies assembly while maintaining both the telescoping drive function and energy absorption capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The drive bracket is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the telescoping drive mechanism (connecting the actuator to the upper jacket) and the energy absorption element (through the integrated energy absorption strap portion). This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components for each function, reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple connecting parts are included in the telescope drive bracket and energy absorption strap assembly, then the assembly is complete, but cost and assembly complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly completenessVSAvoidcost and assembly complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple previously separate connecting parts are merged into the integrated drive bracket structure. The drive bracket includes integrated features such as the energy absorption strap portion, the drive nut interface, and the upper jacket connection, all as one piece. This eliminates the need for multiple separate connecting parts and reduces assembly steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated drive bracket is designed with distinct functional segments (drive nut portion, energy absorption strap portion, upper jacket interface) that are formed as a single integrated component. This segmentation within integration allows each function to be clearly defined while maintaining the benefits of a reduced part count.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 integration reduces the complexity and cost of the steering system while maintaining effective energy absorption during impact events, as the energy absorption strap can directly engage and dissipate kinetic energy.

Implementation Method 1

roll straps absorb energy during the deformation of the strap in an impact event wherein kinetic energy can be dissipated through compression of the steering column assembly

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEnergy absorption through deformation: Deformation

Implementation Method 2

a telescope drive assembly electrically moving a telescope drive nut axially to telescopingly adjust the upper jacket

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAxial movement through mechanical actuation: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS12337893B1Energy absorption strap integrated with a telescope drive bracket

Publication Date: 2025.06.24 STEERING SOLUTIONS IP HOLDING CORP

AI summary

A steering column assembly includes a lower jacket. The steering column assembly also includes an upper jacket disposed within the lower jacket and being telescopingly adjustable relative to the lower jacket. The steering column assembly further includes a telescope drive assembly electrically moving a telescope drive nut axially to telescopingly adjust the upper jacket. The steering column assembly yet further includes an energy absorption strap directly coupled to the upper jacket and directly coupled to the telescope drive nut to transfer axial movement of the telescope drive nut to the upper jacket.