Steering device for automobiles
US6164698A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 15, 1998 |
| Grant date | Dec 26, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 15, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D2001/103
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A steering device is mounted in a limited space in a small engine compartment, thereby providing improved efficiency for assembly on production lines and improved vehicle maintenance. A steering column extends upward diagonally from in front of an engine into a driver's cabin. When seen from above the vehicle, the steering column extends from the front of the engine to driver's cabin through a space formed between the engine and a side member of a chassis frame. A steering shaft and a middle shaft of the steering column are connected via a joint, which passes along the side of the engine. The joint has a pair of tightening bolt holes, and serrations. Both shafts also have serrations mating with the serrations on the joint. One of the bolts is loosely fitted into one of the bolt holes during installation. A flat cavity on one of the joining shafts receives the loosely fitted tightening bolt. The flat cavity permits limited in and out motion of the joint for setting the final position of the joint. The other of the joining shafts has an annular groove for receiving the other of the tightening bolts. The adjustability permitted by the flat groove enables prior installation of the join…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.