Steering Column Energy Absorption Strap Radial Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle steering column assemblies with energy absorption straps face packaging constraints due to their inward configuration relative to the rake bracket, limiting the upper jacket's outer diameter and cross-car packaging space.
Innovation Solution
A steering column assembly design that includes an energy absorption strap positioned radially outward of the rake bracket, allowing for telescopic movement and manual rake adjustment, which includes a curved energy absorption strap with legs extending parallel to each other, facilitating energy absorption during a collapse event while accommodating larger upper jacket diameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the energy absorption strap is configured inboard (radially inward) of the rake bracket, then the packaging constraints are satisfied, but the upper jacket outer diameter is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption strap is repositioned from its conventional inboard location to an outboard location relative to the rake bracket. This inversion of the traditional arrangement allows the upper jacket to achieve a larger outer diameter by moving the strap to the radially outward position, thereby resolving the packaging constraint contradiction.
2Area of stationary object
If the energy absorption strap is positioned radially outward of the rake bracket, then the upper jacket diameter can be larger, but the packaging space requirements change
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption strap is configured with multiple legs extending in different radial directions from the rake bracket. This multi-dimensional arrangement optimizes the use of available packaging space by distributing the strap components across different radial zones, allowing larger upper jacket diameter while maintaining compact overall packaging.
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 configuration resolves packaging constraints, enabling a larger upper jacket diameter and improved cross-car packaging, enhancing energy absorption and flexibility in steering column assembly design.
Implementation Method 1
an energy absorption strap assembly (EA strap assembly) operatively coupled to an upper jacket and configured to unroll once a specified collapse load is exceeded
Data Source
AI summary
A steering column assembly includes a lower jacket. The steering column assembly also includes an upper jacket operatively coupled to the lower jacket, the upper jacket telescopingly moveable relative to the lower jacket. The steering column assembly further includes a rake bracket operatively coupled to the lower jacket. The steering column assembly yet further includes an energy absorption strap operatively coupled to the upper jacket, at least a portion of the energy absorption strap disposed radially outward of the rake bracket.