Steering Wheel Positioning Module with Offset Axis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle steering wheel positioning systems are complex and prone to misalignment due to manufacturing tolerances, requiring cumbersome eccentric regulating mechanisms that can be difficult to implement and adjust.
Innovation Solution
A simplified positioning system using a regulating module with a receiving element and a counter-form regulating element that engages with a base part or added part, preventing rotation and allowing for predefined offset positions, ensuring the added part is correctly aligned relative to the base part during assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If eccentric regulating means are used to adjust the position of the added part, then the position can be regulated, but the device becomes complicated to implement and operate
Solution Approach 1:
The regulating means is divided into separate modular components: a regulating element with an offset axis, a receiving element, and a centring part. This segmentation allows each component to have a specific function while simplifying the overall assembly and adjustment process, eliminating the need for complex eccentric mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The offset axis of the regulating element automatically provides the required position adjustment when the added part is mounted. The system self-regulates the position through the predetermined offset distance, eliminating the need for manual eccentric adjustment mechanisms and making the device self-positioning.
2Manufacturing precision
If eccentric regulating means are used, then position adjustment is possible, but the operation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The offset axis is predetermined and pre-calculated during the design phase. This preliminary action establishes the exact position adjustment needed before manufacturing, allowing the added part to be quickly positioned correctly during assembly without time-consuming manual adjustments or calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically positions the added part using the offset axis, eliminating the need for operator intervention in the adjustment process. The self-positioning mechanism significantly reduces the time required for installation while maintaining precise positioning.
3Manufacturing precision
If slides are provided for single-direction regulation, then position control is achieved, but the system becomes even more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The complex slide mechanism is completely removed and replaced by a simpler offset axis system. The essential function of position control in the axial direction is extracted and achieved through the offset distance, eliminating unnecessary mechanical complexity while maintaining the required positioning capability.
4Manufacturing precision
If eccentric mechanisms are used, then position regulation is possible, but deregulating can occur during irregular pivoting
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using an eccentric mechanism that requires controlled pivoting to maintain position, the invention inverts the approach by using a fixed offset axis. This inversion eliminates the pivoting motion that causes deregulating, providing inherent stability and preventing position drift during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle steering wheel includes a base part such as a frame, at least one added part such as a safety module, at least one centring part, and a regulating device for regulating a position of the added part on the base part. The regulating device includes at least one stud, and at least one impression. The at least one impression is arranged to receive the at least one stud in accordance with a first mounting position or at least one second mounting position, in such a manner as to impose a first position of the added part relative to the base part or to impose a second position of the added part relative to the base part.