Steering Column Torque Adjustment via Bearing Sleeve Friction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing steering column assemblies lack a reliable mechanism to adjust steering shaft torque within a narrow range, which can affect vehicle handling and driver comfort.

Innovation Solution

A torque adjustment assembly integrated with a lower bearing sleeve, featuring a spring in frictional contact, allows for adjustable steering shaft torque by varying the friction between the bearing sleeve and the spring, enabling precise torque adjustment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a torque adjustment assembly is added to the steering column assembly, then the ability to adjust steering shaft torque within a narrow range is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque adjustment capabilityVSAvoidassembly complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The torque adjustment assembly is integrated with the lower bearing sleeve, combining two functional components into a single unified structure. This merging approach allows torque adjustment functionality to be added while minimizing overall assembly complexity by sharing common structural elements between the bearing sleeve and torque adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The lower bearing sleeve serves multiple functions: it provides bearing support for the steering shaft and simultaneously houses the torque adjustment assembly. This multi-functionality approach allows a single component to fulfill both structural support and torque adjustment roles, reducing the need for additional separate parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If friction between the bearing sleeve and spring is increased for torque adjustment, then the torque control precision is improved, but the energy loss increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque control precisionVSAvoidfrictional energy loss

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The spring mechanism provides dynamic friction control, where the friction force between the bearing sleeve and spring can vary based on the spring compression state. This dynamic characteristic allows for precise torque control at different steering positions while the spring continuously adapts to maintain optimal friction levels.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The torque adjustment mechanism utilizes changes in spring compression parameters to control friction levels. By adjusting the spring force through compression or extension, the system can precisely control the friction-based torque while the spring's elastic properties help minimize energy loss through reversible deformation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 solution provides a mechanism to increase or decrease steering shaft torque, enhancing vehicle handling and driver comfort by allowing for customizable torque settings within a narrow range.

Implementation Method 1

a spring in frictional contact with a receiving portion of the lower bearing sleeve

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS11459013B2Steering column turning torque adjustment device

Publication Date: 2022.10.04 STEERING SOLUTIONS IP HOLDING CORP

AI summary

A steering column assembly includes a steering column housing. The steering column assembly also includes a lower shaft disposed within the steering column housing and axially adjustable. The steering column assembly further includes a torque adjustment assembly operatively connected to the lower shaft to increase or decrease a steering shaft turning torque.