Low-Profile Steering Column Strap Lock With Cam Tooth Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column lock mechanisms in vehicles require complex appendages and large packaging space, making them unsuitable for OEM spatial requirements and complicating adjustability and safety during energy absorption events.
Innovation Solution
A low profile energy absorption strap lock mechanism with a cam-operated teeth engagement system that allows for compact and smooth adjustment between locked and unlocked positions using an energy absorption strap and teeth plates, facilitated by symmetrically positioned springs and cams for balanced engagement and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a telescoping positive lock mechanism with complex appendages is used, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity and packaging space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: an energy absorption strap with teeth, a teeth plate with corresponding teeth, and a cam-operated actuation system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while reducing overall complexity compared to integrated complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the energy absorption function into a separate strap component with teeth, rather than integrating it into the main locking mechanism. This extracted energy absorption strap works independently with the teeth plate and cam system, simplifying the overall mechanism while maintaining reliability.
2Ease of operation
If a telescope eccentric cam with complex appendages is used, then the locked and unlocked conditions are achieved, but the packaging space and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking function and energy absorption function into a single integrated strap mechanism. The energy absorption strap with teeth serves both as the locking element and the energy absorption element, eliminating the need for separate complex appendages and reducing packaging space.
Solution Approach 2:
The energy absorption strap serves multiple functions: it provides the locking engagement through its teeth, absorbs energy during collapse events, and enables the locked/unlocked conditions through its interaction with the teeth plate and cam. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components and overall packaging space.
3Volume of moving object
If a low profile energy absorption strap mechanism is used, then the packaging space is reduced, but the locking reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The springs are pre-loaded to bias the teeth plate toward the engaged position with the energy absorption strap teeth. This preliminary action ensures that the locking mechanism is inherently reliable, with the teeth naturally seeking engagement, while still allowing compact packaging due to the efficient cam-operated disengagement system.
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 mechanism provides secure, compact, and efficient axial adjustment of the steering column while ensuring safety during energy absorption events, complying with OEM spatial constraints and enhancing user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a first cam operatively coupled to the clamp bolt, wherein rotation of the adjustment lever causes rotation of the first cam, wherein rotation of the first cam selectively moves the second plurality of teeth into and out of engagement with the first plurality of teeth
Implementation Method 2
a pair of springs in contact with an outer side of a teeth plate, the pair of springs biasing the teeth plate to a locked position, the locked position defined by engagement of the first plurality of teeth with the second plurality of teeth
Data Source
AI summary
A lock mechanism for a steering column assembly includes an energy absorption strap having a first plurality of teeth formed thereon. The lock mechanism also includes a teeth plate having a second plurality of teeth formed thereon. The lock mechanism further includes a pair of springs in contact with an outer side of a teeth plate, the pair of springs biasing the teeth plate to a locked position, the locked position defined by engagement of the first plurality of teeth with the second plurality of teeth. The lock mechanism yet further includes a pair of cams in contact with an inner side of the teeth plate, wherein rotation of the pair of cams moves the second plurality of teeth out of engagement with the first plurality of teeth to define the unlocked position.