Steering Column Lock Switch Bayonet Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering column lock systems require complete replacement of the lock when a faulty switch needs to be replaced, and they necessitate multiple centering parts for proper electrical operation, making them complex and costly to manufacture and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A method for mounting a switch body in a steering column lock body using bayonet mounting means, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly by clipping and unclipping mechanisms, eliminating the need for external centering parts and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the switch is force-fitted axially between two lock half-bodies with centering gadroons and centering structures, then good electrical operation and proper centering are ensured, but the switch cannot be easily replaced and multiple centering parts are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the centering function and the electrical connection function into a single integrated switch body design. The switch body includes an integrated centering element that automatically centers itself within the lock body housing, eliminating the need for separate centering gadroons and centering structures. This merging reduces the number of parts while maintaining proper centering for reliable electrical operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch body is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both the electrical switching component and the centering mechanism. The integrated design allows the switch body to perform multiple functions simultaneously: providing electrical connections, ensuring proper centering, and enabling easy replacement through the bayonet mounting interface.
2Strength
If the switch is force-fitted axially between two lock half-bodies, then the switch is firmly held in the housing, but complete replacement of the lock is necessary when the switch fails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the lock system into separable components: the lock body housing and the switch body. The switch body is designed as a separate, independently replaceable module that can be easily detached from the lock body housing through a bayonet mounting interface. This segmentation allows the switch to be replaced without replacing the entire lock, while the bayonet interface ensures firm holding during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The bayonet mounting interface provides dynamic characteristics: during installation, the switch body is inserted and rotated to engage the bayonet lugs, creating a secure connection. During replacement, the same interface allows easy disengagement by reversing the rotation. This dynamic mounting mechanism adapts between secure holding during operation and easy release during maintenance.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple centering parts are provided to ensure proper electrical operation, then centering accuracy is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the centering function into the switch body itself through an integrated centering element. This single integrated component provides the necessary centering accuracy for proper electrical operation without requiring multiple separate centering parts. The merging simplifies the manufacturing process by reducing the number of components that need to be produced, assembled, and quality-checked.
4Reliability
If the switch is firmly held in the housing through force-fitting, then electrical operation is reliable, but the assembly process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The bayonet mounting interface provides dynamic characteristics: during installation, the switch body is inserted and rotated to engage the bayonet lugs, creating a secure connection. During replacement, the same interface allows easy disengagement by reversing the rotation. This dynamic mounting mechanism adapts between secure holding during operation and easy release during maintenance.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5A~6
AI summary
The invention relates to an anti-theft system for a steering column, which includes: an anti-theft body (2) which includes a recess (20) defining a longitudinal recess axis (Y); a switch (1) which includes a switch body (10) configured to be inserted into the recess (20), the switch having a longitudinal switch axis (X), in which the switch body (10) includes at least one first fastening means (13), and in which the anti-theft body (2) includes at least one second fastening means (23) provided at the recess (20), the first and second attachment means (13, 23) being configured to engage with one another by snap-fitting in order to attach the switch (1) to the anti-theft body (2).