Steering Wheel Adjusting Mechanism with Integrated Locking Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing steering wheel adjusting mechanisms for motor vehicles require additional means to couple and lock two separate plate packages to a supporting arm, complicating the construction and mounting process.
Innovation Solution
A steering wheel adjusting mechanism with a pivotally attached supporting arm and steering shaft housing unit, featuring at least one compressible locking plate package attached to both the vehicle and the steering shaft housing unit, which uses clamping means to lock the steering shaft housing unit relative to the vehicle, eliminating the need for additional coupling and locking means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two separate plate packages are used to lock the steering shaft housing unit, then the locking function is achieved, but the device complexity increases due to additional coupling and locking means
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate plate packages into a single integrated locking plate package that performs the locking function for both the supporting arm and the steering shaft housing unit. This merging eliminates the need for separate coupling and locking means, reducing device complexity while maintaining the locking function.
2Reliability
If two separate plate packages are used, then the locking function is achieved, but the ease of manufacture decreases due to more parts
Solution Approach 1:
By merging two separate plate packages into one integrated component, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. This single locking plate package can be manufactured as one piece, significantly improving ease of manufacture while still achieving the required locking function.
3Reliability
If two separate plate packages are used, then the locking function is achieved, but the ease of operation decreases due to more parts to assemble
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of two plate packages into one locking plate package reduces the number of assembly steps required during installation. Instead of assembling and securing two separate packages with multiple coupling means, the single integrated package requires fewer mounting operations, improving ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a steering wheel adjusting mechanism (2) for motor vehicles (4) comprising a pivotally to the vehicle (4) attached supporting arm (8), and a pivotally to the supporting arm (8) attached steering shaft housing unit (12), where at least one locking plate package (14 and 16, respectively) is attached to both the vehicle (4) and the steering shaft housing unit (12), which locking plate package (14 and 16, respectively) is compressible with clamping means (18) in order to lock the steering shaft housing unit (12) relative to the vehicle (4). Optionally, the supporting arm (8) is pivotally attached to a to the vehicle (4) mountable fastening part (20). Optionally, the locking plate package (14 and 16, respectively) is attached to a firmly to the vehicle (4) mountable fastening unit (22). Optionally, the fastening part (20) and the fastening unit (22) are integrated with each other to a firmly to the vehicle (4) mountable steering wheel adjusting bracket (24).