Stow Release Assembly for Steering Column Retracting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manually adjusted steering columns in vehicles lack the capability to be stowed or retracted during autonomous driving modes, limiting space and functionality for drivers.
Innovation Solution
A stow release assembly for manually translatable steering columns, featuring an upper and lower jacket with a telescoping mechanism and an electromechanical blocking element that allows selective retraction and positioning, enabling the steering column to be stowed beyond standard limits and maintaining predefined rake angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If power column actuators are used to enable stow capability, then the steering column can be retracted to enlarge space, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the blocking function from a continuous power actuator system and implements it through a discrete electromechanical blocking element that can be engaged or disengaged as needed. This blocking element is selectively positioned to prevent retraction beyond a first retraction limit, allowing the column to be manually retracted without requiring a complex power actuator for the entire range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescoping range is segmented into multiple ranges: a first telescoping range from the fully extended position to the first retraction limit, and a second telescoping range from the first retraction limit to the second retraction limit. The electromechanical blocking element selectively engages to prevent movement beyond the first retraction limit, while allowing movement through the second range when disengaged.
2Device complexity
If the steering column is manually adjustable, then the device complexity is reduced, but the stow capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an electromechanical blocking element that can dynamically change its state between engaged and disengaged positions. When engaged, it provides a hard stop at the first retraction limit for manual adjustment. When disengaged, it allows the column to be retracted further to the second retraction limit, providing stow capability. This dynamic blocking mechanism adds versatility to the manual adjustment system.
3Volume of moving object
If the upper jacket is allowed to retract beyond the first retraction limit, then the stow capability is improved, but the risk of over-retraction and potential damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromechanical blocking element is positioned in advance to prevent over-retraction. It is configured to engage with a stop feature on the lower jacket or associated component when the upper jacket attempts to retract beyond the first retraction limit, thereby preventing potential damage to the telescoping mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromechanical blocking element acts as an intermediary between the upper and lower jackets. It mediates the retraction movement by allowing controlled movement within the first telescoping range while blocking excessive movement that would cause over-retraction, thus protecting the system.
Data Source
AI summary
A stow release assembly for a manually translatable steering column assembly includes an upper jacket. The stow release assembly also includes a lower jacket, the upper jacket translatable relative to the lower jacket, the upper jacket translatable between a retracted range and a stowed range. The stow release assembly further includes an electromechanical blocking element coupled to a stationary component of the steering column assembly and moveable between an extended position and a retracted position, the electromechanical blocking element selectively preventing translation of the upper jacket at a plurality of translation positions.