Retractable steer-by-wire steering column
US10946889B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 21, 2019 |
| Grant date | Mar 16, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 4, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D1/185
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A steering column for a vehicle includes a telescopic mechanism, a first electrically powered linear actuator, and a means for absorbing the impact energy transmitted between a driver and the steering wheel in a crash. The telescopic mechanism includes substantially coaxial first and second tubular members. The first electrically powered linear actuator controls the longitudinal position of the first tubular member relative to the second tubular member. The means for absorbing the impact energy includes: (1) two or more folded metal straps; (2) at least one strap is fixed at one of its ends to a member which is fusibly connected to the first tubular member and to which is also connected a moving part of the said electrically powered linear actuator; (3) an adjacent edge of each of at least the first and second straps comprising an array of teeth or ramps; and (4) a pyrotechnically actuated means.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.