Steering Wheel Rim Bonding with Movable Form-Fitting Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for bonding material segments to steering devices, such as steering wheel rims, are inefficient and prone to errors due to manual processes, leading to non-uniform bonding and increased time consumption.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising at least two movably mounted form fitting segments that can enclose a steering device, a receptacle for receiving the device, and a drive mechanism to automate the bonding process, allowing for uniform and efficient attachment of material segments like leather or functional elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual bonding methods are used, then flexibility in operation is maintained, but productivity is low and bonding uniformity is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The bonding device is divided into multiple form fitting segments that can be independently positioned and adjusted. Each segment can be movably mounted relative to others, allowing modular assembly and disassembly while maintaining consistent bonding pressure and uniformity across the steering wheel rim surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The form fitting segments are designed with movable mounting mechanisms that allow dynamic adjustment during the bonding process. This enables the segments to adapt to different steering wheel geometries and apply uniform bonding force throughout the process, improving both productivity and bonding consistency.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated bonding device is implemented, then bonding uniformity improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the bonding device into multiple independently controllable form fitting segments, the system achieves uniform bonding pressure distribution across complex steering wheel surfaces without requiring an overly complex monolithic structure. Each segment can be precisely controlled to maintain consistent bonding conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The form fitting segments are designed with multi-functional capabilities, serving as both bonding surfaces and positioning elements. They can be adjusted to accommodate various steering wheel geometries and material types, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices while maintaining high bonding precision.
3Loss of time
If manual bonding process is used, then device complexity remains low, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The form fitting segments are pre-configured with precise geometries and mounting positions that enable rapid setup and execution of the bonding process. Material segments can be pre-positioned on the steering wheel rim before the form fitting segments are closed, reducing actual bonding time while maintaining manageable automation levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable mounting of form fitting segments allows for dynamic closing and positioning actions that significantly reduce bonding time compared to static manual methods. The segments can be rapidly actuated into bonding position and uniformly applied pressure, accelerating the process while keeping the automation mechanism relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
It is provided a device for bonding at least one material segment to a steering device. The device comprises at least two form fitting segments, wherein at least one of the form fitting segments is movably mounted relative to the at least one other form fitting segment, wherein the form fitting segments are configured in such a way that they can at least sectionally enclose the steering device, in particular the steering wheel rim of the steering device; a receptacle for receiving the steering device; a drive mechanism for moving the at least one movably mounted form fitting segment towards the steering device.