Steering Apparatus Wedge Mechanism for Airbag Module Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steering apparatus assemblies for motor vehicles require specific tools and significant effort to disassemble the airbag module from the steering apparatus, making the process difficult and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A steering apparatus assembly featuring a wedge with variable height and angle, allowing for linear movement to undo both locking joints, facilitating quick assembly and disassembly by using a resilient locking element and spring-loaded locking body, and optionally foam pockets, to enable easy mounting and dismounting of the airbag module from the steering apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms with rigid catch hooks and resilient locking elements are used, then reliable connection is achieved, but disassembly becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic system where the resilient locking element can be easily deflected by the wedge during disassembly. The wedge converts linear motion into the necessary deflection motion, making the rigid locking mechanism dynamically controllable for both secure connection and easy release.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge acts as an intermediary tool that mediates between the operator and the locking mechanism. Instead of directly manipulating the resilient locking element or rigid catch hook, the operator uses the wedge to indirectly actuate the release, simplifying the disassembly process while maintaining connection reliability during normal operation.
2Measurement precision
If specific tools are required for disassembly, then precise control is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-releasing through the wedge action. The wedge automatically deflects the resilient locking element and disengages the rigid catch hook from the foam pocket without requiring the operator to perform complex manual operations or use specialized tools, making the system easy to operate while maintaining precise control.
3Strength
If multiple locking joints are used, then connection strength is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two locking functions (resilient locking element and rigid catch hook with foam pocket) into a single integrated system that is actuated by one wedge. This merging reduces the overall complexity compared to having two independently controlled locking mechanisms, while maintaining the strength benefits of dual locking joints.
4Manufacturing precision
If resilient locking element is spaced apart from rigid catch hooks during normal operation, then fine positioning is achieved, but connection reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed with preliminary positioning through the second locking mechanism (rigid catch hook and foam pocket) that ensures accurate alignment before the resilient locking element engages. This preliminary action guarantees fine positioning while the subsequent engagement of the resilient locking element provides the necessary connection reliability for withstanding axial forces.
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
Enables quick, accurate, and robust mounting of the airbag module on the steering apparatus with minimal effort and efficient disassembly, ensuring reliable connection during driving and easy removal without the need for specialized tools, while maintaining precise positioning and high manufacturing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the first joint comprises a resilient locking element that can be deflected in a direction transverse to the steering axis to undo the first joint
Implementation Method 2
A steering apparatus assembly is disclosed in which a wedge is provided that has a wedge length transverse to a steering axis and a variable wedge height in the direction of the steering axis. The wedge length, the wedge height and an angle of inclination of the wedge are matched to one another such that both a first joint and a second joint of assembly elements can be undone by a linear movement of the wedge
Data Source
AI summary
A steering apparatus assembly, having a steering axis, about which the steering apparatus assembly can rotate in is disclosed. The steering apparatus assembly comprises a first element and a second element. The two elements are connected to one another by a first and second joints. The first joint comprises a resilient locking element, which is deflectable in a direction transverse to the steering axis to disengage the first joint. The second joint is deflectable by an axial load acting on the assembly elements away from one another. A wedge is provided having a wedge length transverse to the steering axis and a variable wedge height in the direction of the steering axis. The wedge length and length and a wedge inclination angle are matched to one another such that both the first joint and the second joint can be undone by a linear movement of the wedge in the longitudinal direction.