Vehicle Steering Lock Spring Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices for motor vehicles are complex, have many components, and require significant space, making them difficult to assemble and maintain, while also lacking a reliable and quick mechanism for securing a locking bolt.
Innovation Solution
A simplified locking device design that uses a single, combined spring element to both move the locking bolt into the locked position and hold the securing element in the retracted position, which is supported on both the locking bolt and the securing element, allowing for efficient assembly and secure locking with reduced components and space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional locking device with separate spring elements is used, then the locking bolt can be moved reliably into the locked position, but the device becomes complicated with many individual components and requires a lot of space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate spring elements into a single integrated spring element that performs both functions: moving the locking bolt into the locked position and holding the securing element in the retracted position. This merging reduces the number of components while maintaining the reliable locking function through the combined mechanical actions of the unified spring mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The single spring element is designed to fulfill multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both a locking spring for the locking bolt and a retaining spring for the securing element. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate spring components while ensuring reliable operation of both locking mechanisms through the unified spring element's elastic deformation and energy storage capabilities.
2Reliability
If a traditional locking device with separate spring elements is used, then the locking function is reliable, but the device requires a lot of space
Solution Approach 1:
By merging two separate spring elements into one integrated spring component, the overall volume required for the locking device is reduced. The unified spring element occupies less space than two separate springs would require, while still providing the necessary mechanical force and energy storage for reliable locking and securing element retention through its combined functional design.
3Reliability
If a traditional locking device with many individual components is used, then the locking function is comprehensive, but the device is difficult to assemble
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of two separate spring elements into a single manufactured component significantly simplifies the assembly process. Instead of requiring multiple separate assembly steps for installing and positioning two different springs, the unified spring element can be installed as a single component, reducing assembly complexity and time while maintaining the comprehensive locking function through its integrated design.
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 provides a reliable, easy-to-assemble locking mechanism that securely locks a functionally essential component of a motor vehicle, such as a steering shaft, with reduced complexity and space usage, enhancing safety and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (14) which holds the securing element (12) in the retracted position (RS) by means of a spring-elastic bias when the first housing part (10) is arranged on the second housing part (20), and releases it into the engaged position (ES) by springing back (R)
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking device (100) for locking a functionally essential component of a motor vehicle, in particular a steering spindle, comprising a first housing part (10) in which a locking bolt (11) is movably received between a locking position (VP) for locking the functionally essential component and an unlocking position (EP) for releasing the functionally essential component, a second housing part (20) in which means for moving the locking bolt (11) between the locking position (VP) and the unlocking position (EP) are received, a locking element (12) which prevents movement of the locking bolt (11) in an engagement position (ES) and releases movement of the locking bolt (11) in a retraction position (RS), and a spring element (14) which holds the locking element (12) in the retraction position (RS) by means of a spring-elastic preload (V).when the first housing part (10) is arranged on the second housing part (20), and releases into the engagement position (ES) by a springback (R) when the first housing part (10) is changed in its arrangement relative to the second housing part (20). For this purpose, according to the invention, the spring element (14) is supported on the locking bolt (11) and acts on the locking bolt (11) from the unlocking position (EP) to the locking position (VP) by means of a spring-elastic preload (V).