Steering column energy absorbing release bushing and deforming bracket
US4616522A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 8, 1985 |
| Grant date | Oct 14, 1986 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 8, 2005 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D1/195
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An energy absorbing steering column assembly for a motor vehicle steering wheel. The column has a tubular jacket supported from the vehicle body by upper and lower sheet metal brackets. The upper bracket is connected to the body by releasable capsules. The jacket has a plastic end cap bushing fitted on its forward end. The bushing is releasably press fitted in a concentric collar portion of the lower bracket. Under predetermined impact loading on the steering wheel and column assembly, the capsules release the upper bracket allowing the column to be guided forward axially causing radial tabs on the bushing to be sheared-off in a first level energy absorption. Continued travel of the column assembly in a controlled lateral path provides second higher level energy absorption wherein the lower bracket is deformed in a controlled manner.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.