Steering Sensor Plug Connector Assembly With Automatic Decoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly process of steering systems with integrated steering sensors is complex and time-consuming, requiring multiple manual steps and plug-fitting of sensor cables, which complicates the process and reduces operational reliability.
Innovation Solution
A steering device with a plug connector unit that includes a plug-in unit and a support unit, coupled via an uncoupling unit, allowing for defined force transmission during assembly to automatically release the connection between the units, simplifying the assembly process and ensuring reliable electrical contacting of the steering sensor unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual plug-fitting of sensor cable is performed during assembly, then electrical contacting is achieved, but assembly process becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sensor cable connection and sensor housing installation into a single integrated plug connector unit. The sensor cable is pre-assembled with the sensor housing to form one component that is installed simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate manual plug-fitting operations and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining reliable electrical contacting.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor cable is pre-connected to the sensor housing during manufacturing or pre-assembly, forming a pre-assembled plug connector unit. This preliminary action ensures that the electrical contacting is already prepared and will be automatically established upon installation, eliminating the need for manual plug-fitting during the final assembly process.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple assembly steps are required, then sensor housing can be fastened to steering shaft, but assembly process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple assembly operations into a single integrated installation step. The plug connector unit comprising the sensor housing and sensor cable is installed simultaneously with the steering shaft, and the electrical connection is automatically established in one action, eliminating sequential manual plug-fitting steps and significantly improving assembly productivity.
3Reliability
If sensor cable is connected separately, then electrical contacting is achieved, but number of manual operating steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor cable connection is merged with the sensor housing installation by pre-assembling them into one integrated plug connector unit. This single component is installed in one operation, automatically establishing both the mechanical mounting and electrical connection simultaneously, greatly simplifying the assembly operation while ensuring reliable electrical contacting.
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
This design simplifies the assembly process, reduces manual steps, enhances operational reliability, and improves the durability and service life of the steering device by enabling flexible and reliable electrical contacting through a defined plug-in force.
Implementation Method 1
an uncoupling unit which is provided for transmitting a force which is exerted in an assembly procedure of the plug connector unit to the plug-in unit and/or the support unit such that the connection between the plug-in unit and the support unit is released
Data Source
AI summary
A steering device includes a steering transmission housing which provides a sensor recording region, a steering sensor unit arranged in the sensor recording region in an installed state, and plug connector unit arranged, in an installed state, in a contacting recess in the steering transmission housing for electrically contacting the steering sensor unit. The connector unit includes a plug unit for connection to the steering sensor unit and a carrier unit coupled to the plug unit at least in a pre-installed state of the connector unit. The steering device has a decoupling unit which is intended to transmit a force exerted during an installation process of the connector unit onto the plug unit and/or the carrier unit in such a way that the connection between the plug unit and the carrier unit is released during the installation process of the connector unit.