Patent · US Expired

Collapsible steering column assembly for a vehicle

US6290258A · kind A · utility

12Cited by
4References
5Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateMay 26, 2000
Grant dateSep 18, 2001
Priority date
Expiry dateMay 26, 2020

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB62D1/184
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A clamping mechanism for an adjustable steering column for a vehicle has an actuator coupled to a clamp for clamping the steering column in a desired position. The actuator is controlled to adjust clamping force of the clamp in the event of vehicle crash to thereby control energy absorption, and the actuator can be electrically controlled. Sensors are used to calculate weight, posture, position, etc. of the driver and thereby predetermine the settings required for energy absorption to protect the driver. The actuator depends on the sensed settings to control the clamping absorption energy.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.