Steering Column Telescope Assembly Energy Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current collapsible steering column assemblies require multiple expensive and space-consuming multi-plates, with complex and heavy structures, and have lower specific strength capacity, making them inefficient for easy adjustment, weight reduction, and energy absorption during secondary impacts.
Innovation Solution
A simplified steering column assembly design using fewer components, including a telescope plate, locking pin, and preload plate, with a user-operated lever for adjusting the steering column's tilt and telescoping functions, allowing for energy absorption and breakaway during impacts, while reducing the number and size of parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple multi-plates are used in the steering column assembly, then the structure provides sufficient strength and stability, but the assembly becomes heavier, more complex, and occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple multi-plates into a single integrated plate structure that provides the necessary strength and stability. This merging of components reduces the overall complexity of the assembly, decreases the number of parts, and maintains adequate structural performance without requiring multiple separate plates
Solution Approach 2:
The simplified plate structure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - providing structural support, enabling energy absorption during impact, and facilitating the breakaway mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each function
2Strength
If multiple multi-plates are used in the steering column assembly, then the structure provides sufficient strength and stability, but the assembly occupies more space within the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple multi-plates into a single integrated plate, the patent significantly reduces the space occupied by the steering column assembly while maintaining the necessary structural strength. The consolidated structure eliminates gaps and overlaps that would exist between multiple separate plates
3Strength
If a complex structure with multiple multi-plates is used, then the assembly provides adequate strength, but the weight of the assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces assembly weight by merging multiple multi-plates into a single integrated plate structure. This consolidation eliminates redundant material and reduces the overall mass of the steering column assembly while preserving the necessary strength through optimized structural design
4Strength
If multiple multi-plates are used, then the assembly provides structural support, but the attachment requires a complex and heavy structure for breakaway functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies the breakaway attachment mechanism by integrating it into a single plate structure rather than requiring separate complex mechanisms for each multi-plate. This merged design makes the breakaway function easier to manufacture and implement while maintaining adequate structural support during normal operation
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for a steering column assembly including an engagement plate and a telescope plate at least partially disposed within the engagement plate. The engagement plate may be adapted to be located between a column tube of a steering column assembly and the telescope plate. The engagement plate and the telescope plate have one or more features for engaging with or contacting each other to provide energy absorption during an impact exceeding a threshold load. These features may include one or more projections or protrusions, one or more slots, one or more ribs, or a combination.