Preload mechanism for power steering apparatus
US5316043A · kind A · utility
24Cited by
4References
10Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 4, 1992 |
| Grant date | May 31, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 4, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/86662
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A preload mechanism for use in a rotary control valve is disclosed. The preload mechanism mechanically interlocks input and output members of the control valve to inhibit relative rotation therebetween when steering torque applied to the input member is below a predetermined preload level. The preload mechanism includes a tension spring ring having at least one pair of elongated slots. Pins secured to each of the input and output members project through and are retained in the slots in an over-constrained manner whereby the preload force is bi-directionally exerted on both of the pins.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.