Steering Lock Bolt Security via Counterbore Recess
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steering devices with aluminum-alloy columns are vulnerable to theft as thieves can use special tools to apply shock and loosen the bolt, compromising the security of the steering lock apparatus.
Innovation Solution
The steering device incorporates a flange section with a slant plane and counterbore design, along with a rib structure and a plug member or adhesive to secure the bolt head, making it difficult for thieves to apply shock or loosen the bolt, thereby enhancing the rigidity and security of the steering lock apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the column is made of aluminum alloy to reduce weight, then the vehicle weight is reduced, but the column intensity becomes small and the flange is vulnerable to destruction
Solution Approach 1:
The flange is designed as a composite structure combining aluminum alloy (for weight reduction) with embedded steel plates or reinforcement ribs (for strength enhancement). This allows the column to maintain lightweight properties while the flange section achieves sufficient intensity to resist bolt-loosening attempts and tool attacks.
2Ease of manufacture
If the bolt head section is exposed to allow tool engagement for tightening, then the bolt can be fastened, but thieves can apply shock to the bolt head and loosen the bolt
Solution Approach 1:
The counterbore creates a localized recess in the flange that receives and conceals the bolt head. This local structural modification allows the bolt to remain accessible for tightening during assembly while preventing tool engagement during theft attempts, as the bolt head is recessed below the flange surface and cannot be accessed by external tools.
3Strength
If the flange thickness is increased to prevent destruction, then the rigidity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flange is segmented into multiple functional zones: a mounting surface for the steering lock apparatus, a counterbore for bolt head reception, and integrated reinforcement ribs or embedded steel plates for strength enhancement. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function efficiently without requiring uniform thickness increase across the entire flange, thereby maintaining structural integrity while controlling complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A steering device is provided that includes an aluminum-alloy column bolted with a steering lock apparatus, that prevents destruction of a flange to be bolted, and that prevents the bolt from being loosened by applying shock to a bolt head section through the use of a special tool. A counterbore is formed so deep that a slant plane is higher than a top end of a disk-shaped member of a bolt. A thief can hardly apply shock to the disk-shaped member of the bolt using a special tool. It is difficult to rotate and loosen the bolt. A vehicle can be prevented from being stolen by removing a steering lock apparatus from an outer column.