Steering column release capsules
US5390955A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 23, 1993 |
| Grant date | Feb 21, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 23, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D1/195
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A support for the steering column of an automobile has capsules for dampening vibration while the automobile is in motion. A bracket on the steering column has flanges which are clamped between the capsules. The bracket flanges are frictionally held by the capsules but will break free of the frictional hold to permit collapse of the steering column in the event of a collision. The flanges and capsules are tapered so that when the driver is thrown forward against the steering wheel upon vehicle impact, the initial collapse of the steering column reduces the frictional hold to zero, thus eliminating frictional drag during further collapse of the steering column.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.