Steering ECU Shield Assembly With Elastic EMI Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromagnetic shielding structures for electronic control units (ECUs) operating under harsh conditions face challenges with hard connection methods that result in significant counteracting forces and increased manufacturing complexity and costs due to the need for additional installation space.
Innovation Solution
A control unit design featuring a shield with elastic structures along its edge, a cover with a bent portion that contacts the elastic structures, and a circuit board insulated from both, providing both mechanical connection and electromagnetic shielding while reducing installation space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hard connection methods (bolt connections) are used to connect the shield and shielding housing, then electromagnetic shielding capability is achieved, but significant counteracting forces are generated and additional installation space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the connection method from rigid hard connection to elastic connection. The elastic structures are designed with specific material properties and geometric parameters (thickness, length, cross-section) that allow them to deform under compression, transforming the connection characteristics from rigid to flexible. This enables the shield to be firmly connected to the housing while accommodating dimensional variations and reducing counteracting forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs elastic structures that function as flexible connecting elements between the shield and housing. These elastic structures can be compressed and deformed to establish firm contact, providing both mechanical connection and electromagnetic shielding continuity without requiring additional installation space or complex assembly procedures.
2Reliability
If hard connection methods are used to connect the shield and shielding housing, then electromagnetic shielding is provided, but manufacturing costs and manufacturing process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connection function and electromagnetic shielding function into a single integrated structure. The elastic structures are formed as integral parts of the shield body through stamping or molding processes, eliminating the need for separate connection components and reducing manufacturing steps. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining effective electromagnetic shielding.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical connection systems (multiple bolts, washers, and assembly steps) with a simplified elastic deformation mechanism. The elastic structures are formed using conventional stamping or molding techniques, and the connection is established through controlled compression during assembly, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and costs.
3Ease of manufacture
If elastic structures are used for connection, then counteracting forces are reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the shield body into functional segments: the main shield body and multiple elastic structures distributed along the edge. Each elastic structure is a simple, standardized component formed by stamping or molding, repeating the same basic geometry. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing of individual components while the overall structure remains relatively simple through repetition of standardized elements.
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 enhances electromagnetic shielding, simplifies manufacturing, reduces manufacturing costs, and minimizes counteracting forces by utilizing elastic structures for connection, thereby improving the reliability and safety performance of the steering control system.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of elastic structures distributed along an edge and extending in a direction away from the cavity; a cover, comprising a bent portion that protrudes towards the shield and with an end in contact with the elastic structure, causing the elastic structure to deform at least partially
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present application provides a control unit and a steering control system. The control unit comprises a shield, including a body comprising an edge and enclosing an internal cavity; a plurality of elastic structures, distributed along the edge and extending in a direction away from the cavity; a cover, comprising a bent portion that protrudes towards the shield and with an end in contact with the elastic structure, causing the elastic structure to deform at least partially; and a circuit board, disposed between the shield and the cover, and insulated from the shield and the cover. The control unit and steering control system of the present application offer advantages such as simplicity of structure, ease of application, and good safety performance.