Steering Column Energy Absorption Mechanism with Variable Capacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern steering column assemblies face challenges in adapting energy absorption characteristics to different operational positions, which can lead to suboptimal safety in crash situations depending on the position of the inner and outer tubes.
Innovation Solution
A steering column assembly with an energy absorption mechanism that has variable energy absorption capacity per distance unit along the axis, utilizing friction surfaces, deformation elements, and shearing mechanisms with different zones to adjust energy absorption based on the relative position of the inner and outer tubes, allowing for tailored energy absorption in various driving modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the steering column assembly uses a fixed energy absorption mechanism, then the structure is simple, but the safety performance is suboptimal in different operational positions
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption mechanism is divided into multiple energy absorption zones along the axis of the steering column assembly. Each zone has different energy absorption capacities, allowing the system to provide optimized safety performance for different operational positions without requiring a completely different mechanism for each position.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the energy absorption mechanism are designed with different properties. Specifically, the energy absorption zones have varying capacities tailored to specific operational positions, ensuring that each local region provides the appropriate level of protection for its intended use scenario.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the steering column assembly is designed to be adjustable to different positions, then the adaptability is improved, but the energy absorption characteristics become suboptimal for crash situations
Solution Approach 1:
The energy absorption mechanism is segmented into multiple zones along the axis, with each zone optimized for specific operational positions. This segmentation allows the steering column to maintain optimal energy absorption characteristics regardless of which operational position is engaged, resolving the conflict between adjustability and crash safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The energy absorption mechanism is designed to dynamically engage different zones based on the operational position and crash conditions. The variable energy absorption capacity along the axis allows the system to adapt its protection characteristics to match the driving mode and operational position.
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 enables the steering column assembly to absorb different amounts of energy depending on the operational position, enhancing safety by adapting energy absorption characteristics to match the driving mode, while maintaining a structurally simple and compact design.
Implementation Method 1
an energy absorption mechanism being coupled to at least the inner tube and being configured to absorb energy in case of a relative movement of the inner tube with respect to the outer tube along the axis
Implementation Method 2
energy absorption mechanism... utilizing friction surfaces, deformation elements, and shearing mechanisms
Implementation Method 3
energy absorption mechanism... utilizing friction surfaces, deformation elements, and shearing mechanisms
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosure relates to a steering column assembly (16) for a vehicle (10). The steering column assembly (16) comprises an inner tube (22) and an outer tube (24). The inner tube (22) and the outer tube (24) extend along a common axis (A). In an operational position, a portion of the inner tube (22) is arranged inside the outer tube (24). Moreover, the steering column assembly (16) comprises an energy absorption mechanism (26) being coupled to at least the inner tube (22) and being configured to absorb energy in case of a relative movement of the inner tube (22) and the outer tube (24) along the axis (A) and out of the operational position. An energy absorption capacity per distance unit of the energy absorption mechanism (26) is variable along the axis (A). Additionally, a vehicle (10) comprising such a steering column assembly (16) is presented. Furthermore, a method for operating such a steering column assembly (16) is described.