Steering Column Suspension Assembly for Ergonomic Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for assembling motor vehicle steering columns are hindered by limited visibility and freedom of movement for operators, particularly when positioning the second pre-holding point of the column, due to the inertia and weight distribution of the column, which complicates the final assembly process.
Innovation Solution
A column and support assembly system featuring a slider device and a retaining device with a centering end and abutment rim configuration that allows the column to be tilted and suspended, enabling the operator to position the centering end blindly under the abutment rim and insert it into an opening, guided by contact, facilitating precise alignment and reducing trial-and-error phases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the column is positioned for assembly behind the crosspiece, then the column can be assembled at the correct location, but the operator's visibility and freedom of movement are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension device allows the column to be dynamically positioned at multiple locations along the crosspiece. The column can be moved freely along the crosspiece and suspended at any desired position, transforming the static assembly process into a dynamic one where the operator can approach from different sides and positions, thereby improving visibility and ease of operation while maintaining assembly precision
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the column and the crosspiece. It provides a temporary holding mechanism that allows the column to be positioned and secured at various locations along the crosspiece, enabling the operator to work from different positions without compromising the final assembly accuracy
2Force
If the column weight is supported at the first pre-assembly point, then some weight is borne by the support, but the operator or manipulator arm must still support part of the weight and overcome inertia for positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension device is configured to support the column weight before the final assembly is completed. By providing preliminary support at the suspension point, the device reduces the weight that the operator or manipulator arm must handle during positioning, making the column easier to maneuver and position accurately at the desired location along the crosspiece
3Device complexity
If the second pre-holding point is hidden from the operator's view, then the assembly structure is compact, but the operator experiences trial and error phases when positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension device provides visual and tactile feedback to the operator during the positioning process. The column can be easily moved and suspended at different positions, allowing the operator to see and feel the correct positioning point through the suspension mechanism, thereby eliminating trial and error phases while maintaining a compact assembly structure
Data Source
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AI summary
Proposed is a column (2) and column support (3) assembly (1) configured to be assembled with a crossmember (4) and comprising a guideway device (5) and a retaining device (6). The column comprises a body (19) and a centring end (18). The assembly comprises: – a suspension device (25) configured for suspending the column (2) from a guideway (8) of the guideway device, – an opening (9) on the retaining device (6), configured so that a portion of the centring end (18) of the column (2) can be inserted therein, the opening being limited on a first side by a bearing edge. The retaining device (6) comprises, on a second side of the opening (9) diametrically opposite the first side, a stop rim extending forward of the opening (9) in the direction of the guideway (8), so as to form an end stop for the centring end (18) when the inclination of the column (2) is being varied.