Multifunction one-piece bracket to support a steering column assemby and brake pedal support bracket in an automobile
US5259646A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 20, 1992 |
| Grant date | Nov 9, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 20, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60K35/50
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A multipurpose, lightweight, sheet metal bracket having a U-shaped cross-section is provided with tablike extensions of the sides of the U-shape for attachment thereto of other vehicle components. The sheet metal bracket itself can be spot-welded at a number of points to correspondingly disposed portions of an automobile internal structure for strong, rigid, permanent location to provide strong support to the steering column assembly and the brake support bracket of the automobile. Space above the sides of the U-shaped cross-section of the bracket provides safe passage for wiring between elements in the instrument panel assembly and cooperating elements in the engine compartments. In the event of a collision experienced by the automobile, reactive movement of the steering column assembly, both in translation and in rotation in a manner as would affect the driver of the automobile, is controlled and limited, with portions of the support bracket undergoing controlled deformation at deliberately provided bend zones, with limited movement between the support bracket and the steering column assembly allowed by attachment at elongate apertures in the bracket.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.