Steering Wheel Adjustment Device With Chamfered Coupling Lever
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering wheel adjustment mechanisms lack a reliable and reproducible mechanical overload release mechanism to transition between driving and comfort positions, particularly under emergency conditions, and often require complex locking systems.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical adjustment device featuring a rotary latch and coupling lever system with a spring-loaded mechanism and chamfered stop surfaces, allowing the steering wheel to pivot from comfort positions to the driving position under applied force, and a pawl system for secure locking in the driving position, with an optional actuating mechanism like a Bowden cable for manual or electric operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex locking system is used to secure the steering wheel in comfort positions, then the steering wheel can be reliably locked in multiple positions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into two independent latch elements (first rotary latch element and second rotary latch element), each responsible for locking in specific positions. This segmentation allows reliable multi-position locking while keeping each individual latch mechanism relatively simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system uses dynamic pawls that can pivot between engaged and disengaged states, allowing the steering wheel to be securely locked in multiple positions during normal operation, but automatically release when emergency force is applied. The pawls spring-loaded design enables them to dynamically respond to applied forces.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented to prevent unintended movement, then the steering wheel remains stable in driving position, but the force required to move it may become excessively high
Solution Approach 1:
Different latch elements have different engagement characteristics tailored to their specific functions. The first rotary latch element with its pawl provides strong secure locking for normal operation, while the second rotary latch element with its coupling lever and chamfered stop surface is designed to release under emergency force. This local differentiation of locking qualities allows secure normal operation while enabling emergency release.
Solution Approach 2:
The chamfered stop surface on the coupling lever acts as a pre-designed weakness or release point that will fail first under excessive force. This beforehand cushioning protects the main locking mechanism from damage while providing a controlled release path when emergency force is applied to the steering wheel.
3Ease of operation
If a mechanical overload release mechanism is added to allow emergency movement, then the steering wheel can be moved under emergency conditions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The emergency release function is merged into the existing second rotary latch element and its coupling lever mechanism, rather than being implemented as a separate independent system. The coupling lever's chamfered stop surface serves dual purposes: normal engagement during operation and controlled release under emergency force, combining locking and release functions in a single integrated component.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical overload release mechanism is designed to automatically activate when excessive force is applied to the steering wheel. The coupling lever and chamfered stop surface create a self-actuating system that releases the locking engagement without requiring external control inputs, sensors, or additional actuation mechanisms, thereby minimizing added complexity.
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 secure and reproducible transition between driving and comfort positions, ensuring the steering wheel can be safely moved from comfort positions to the driving position using a manageable force, while maintaining secure locking in the driving position, and includes a sensor for position verification.
Implementation Method 1
the coupling lever being arranged on the second shaft so as to be displaceable out of the working plane in opposition to the force of a spring
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the stop surfaces comprising a chamfer, via which the coupling lever can be displaced or is displaced out of the engagement with the rotary latch element
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustment device for a steering wheel may have a first shaft about which the steering wheel is pivotable. A rotary latch is rotationally fixed to the steering wheel by a rotary latch element. A second shaft is arranged in parallel with the first shaft. A coupling lever is arranged on the second shaft to interact with the rotary latch element. The coupling lever has a stop surface which, for the purpose of engagement, engages in at least one corresponding stop surface of the rotary latch element when the steering wheel, and thus also the rotary latch, is pivoted. At least one of the stop surfaces may have a chamfer via which the coupling lever can be displaced or is displaced out of the engagement with the rotary latch element when a predetermined force is applied to the steering wheel.