Steering Wheel Hub Load Cell Integration for Crash Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional load cell arrangements between the steering column end and steering wheel hub in motor vehicles for crash tests alter the steering column geometry, affecting crash test results and requiring removal of trim parts, leading to unrealistic simulations.
Innovation Solution
A steering wheel with a load cell integrated as the steering wheel hub, maintaining the original geometry and allowing precise force detection without altering the steering column's dimensions, and enabling non-destructive installation without removing trim parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a load cell is interposed between the steering column end and the steering wheel hub, then force detection capability is improved, but the steering column geometry changes and the steering wheel protrudes further into the passenger cell
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell is merged with the steering wheel hub to form an integrated component. The load cell housing forms the outer contour of the steering wheel hub, and the load cell is mounted within this housing. This integration eliminates the need for a separate load cell assembly that would protrude into the passenger cell, while still providing force detection capability between the steering column end and the steering wheel rim.
2Measurement precision
If a load cell is interposed between the steering column end and the steering wheel hub, then force detection capability is improved, but trim parts and switch stalks must be removed for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell is designed with a universal mounting interface that fits within the standard steering wheel hub structure. The load cell housing is configured to match the outer contour of the steering wheel hub, allowing it to be integrated without modifying the steering wheel assembly or removing trim parts and switch stalks. This universal design enables the load cell to be installed in the existing steering wheel configuration.
3Measurement precision
If a load cell is interposed between the steering column end and the steering wheel hub, then force detection capability is improved, but the load cell weight and design influence the dynamic penetration of the steering column
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell is nested within the steering wheel hub structure. The load cell housing forms the outer contour of the steering wheel hub, and the load cell is mounted within this housing. This nesting arrangement minimizes the additional weight and volume of the load cell, as it utilizes the existing space within the steering wheel hub rather than adding external components that would increase weight and affect dynamic penetration.
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 configuration provides more realistic crash test results by maintaining the original steering wheel position and reducing the load cell's influence on the steering column's dynamics, while allowing precise force detection without altering the steering wheel's trim or stalks.
Implementation Method 1
Amongst the many different designs of load cells, configurations based on strain gauges are by far the most common
Data Source
AI summary
A steering wheel for a motor vehicle has an outer steering wheel rim. The outer steering wheel rim is fixedly connected, via at least one spoke, to a steering wheel pot arranged in a steering wheel center. The steering wheel pot, on the base side, has a steering wheel hub for fixing to a steering column. The steering wheel hub is configured as a load cell for detecting a load acting on the steering wheel hub. Such a steering wheel may be used to facilitate various tests.