Frequency-Tuned Vibration Damper Assembly for Steering Wheels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing frequency-tuned vibration dampers for steering wheels face challenges in tuning to lower frequencies, as selecting lower elastic stiffness can lead to misalignment and visibility of internal components due to the weight of the airbag module, which affects the damping operation.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic vibration damper assembly with two sets of elastic elements, where the first set connects the contact plate to the vibrating surface and the second set connects the contact plate to the mass, allowing for independent tuning of stiffness to achieve lower frequencies without misalignment, using the airbag module as part of the mass.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the stiffness of elastic damper elements is reduced to tune to lower frequencies, then the damping frequency is improved, but the mass hangs down and assumes an undesired position causing misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic support system is segmented into two independent sets: first elastic damper elements connecting the contact plate to the vibrating surface, and second elastic damper elements connecting the mass to the contact plate. This segmentation allows independent tuning of each set's stiffness, enabling the overall system to achieve lower frequencies without compromising alignment, as each set can be optimized for its specific function.
2Manufacturing precision
If the stiffness of elastic damper elements is reduced to achieve lower tuning frequencies, then the damping frequency is improved, but the mass position becomes incorrect affecting structural integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic support system is divided into two independent sets: first elastic damper elements connecting the contact plate to the vibrating surface, and second elastic damper elements connecting the mass to the contact plate. This segmentation allows independent tuning of each set's stiffness, enabling the overall system to achieve lower frequencies without compromising alignment, as each set can be optimized for its specific function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single set of elastic elements is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the frequency tuning to lower frequencies without misalignment is not achievable
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic support system is segmented into two independent sets: first elastic damper elements connecting the contact plate to the vibrating surface, and second elastic damper elements connecting the mass to the contact plate. This segmentation allows independent tuning of each set's stiffness, enabling the overall system to achieve lower frequencies without compromising alignment, as each set can be optimized for its specific function.
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
Enables frequency tuning to lower frequencies without compromising the alignment of components, ensuring effective damping and maintaining the structural integrity of the damper assembly.
Implementation Method 1
one or more elastic damper elements for transferring vibrations from a vibrating structure to at least one mass which is caused to vibrate out of phase such as to dampen the vibrations
Implementation Method 2
at least one elastic damper element; wherein the at least one mass and the least one elastic damper element together provide a dampened spring-mass system
Implementation Method 3
a dampened spring-mass system which counteracts and reduces vibrations in a structure or surface
Data Source
AI summary
A frequency-tuned vibration damper assembly includes a horn plate connected to a vibrating surface of a steering wheel structure at a first interface via a plurality of first elastic damper elements so as to be movable in relation to the vibrating surface. A mass supported by the plate is movable in relation to the plate on an opposite front side of the plate. Elastic buffer elements are provided at a second interface between the plate and the mass. The stiffness of the elastic buffer elements is selected such that they form second elastic damper elements which together with the first elastic damper elements and the mass form a frequency-tuned dampened mass-spring system having two damping interfaces and being frequency-tuned to vibrations of said vibrating surface.