Steering Wheel Vibration Dampening via Suspended Airbag Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering wheel assemblies face challenges in optimizing packaging space and reducing weight while effectively dampening vibrations transmitted to the driver, particularly due to the presence of air bag modules which occupy significant space and require efficient vibration mitigation.
Innovation Solution
A steering wheel assembly with a dampening system integrated within the armature, utilizing damper spring elements and isolators to suspend the air bag module for both vertical and lateral movement, thereby attenuating vibrations, and incorporating a horn switch to generate electrical signals while reducing the overall weight and space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a dampening system is added to the steering wheel assembly, then vibration mitigation is improved, but packaging space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The dampening system is nested within the existing steering wheel armature structure. The air bag module is suspended from the armature using damper spring elements, effectively nesting the dampening function within the existing spatial envelope rather than adding external components. This allows vibration mitigation while maintaining compact packaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The air bag module serves multiple functions: it provides safety protection and simultaneously acts as the suspended mass for the dampening system. The damper spring elements both support the air bag module and provide vibration dampening. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve vibration mitigation without requiring additional dedicated space for separate dampening components.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a dampening system is added to the steering wheel assembly, then vibration mitigation is improved, but weight is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The air bag module is utilized as the suspended mass in the dampening system, eliminating the need for separate heavy dampening masses. The damper spring elements provide both structural support and vibration dampening functions. This approach achieves effective vibration mitigation while minimizing additional weight compared to traditional dedicated dampening systems.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the air bag module is suspended for vibration dampening, then driver comfort is improved, but structural complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension and dampening functions are merged into the existing air bag module mounting structure. The damper spring elements are integrated with the armature and air bag module mounting points, combining structural support, vibration isolation, and dampening into a unified system. This reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall structure while improving driver comfort.
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
The solution effectively mitigates vibrations felt by the driver, optimizes packaging space, and reduces the weight of the dampening system, enhancing driver comfort and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a dampening system contained within the armature that facilitates a suspended condition of an automotive component... the vibrations normally felt by the driver are mitigated by the designed movement of the airbag module within the steering wheel assembly
Implementation Method 2
utilizing damper spring elements and isolators to suspend the air bag module for both vertical and lateral movement
Data Source
AI summary
A steering wheel assembly (10) contains a dampening system for mitigating vibrations transferred from a vehicle to the steering wheel assembly (10). A plurality of damper spring elements or grommets or damper spring elements (22) are each retained within a corresponding steering wheel support member (330). An air bag module (14) is fixed to a steering wheel (18) while resting upon the damper spring elements (22) for eliminating and/or reducing lateral displacement/vibrations normally attendant to vehicle operation. A horn switch (16) containing a plurality of annular support members (76, 176) may be positioned over the damper spring elements (22), wherein each annular support member (76, 176) is coaxially aligned and positioned over a corresponding grommet (22) to also manage vertical displacement; the air bag module (14) is then fixed over the horn switch 16 and to the steering wheel (18). Movement of the airbag module can actuate the horn switch.