Steering column
US6357318B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 16, 2000 |
| Grant date | Mar 19, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 27, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D1/184
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A steering column (10) includes a steering column member (12) rotatable to turn steerable vehicle wheels. A support tube (24) supports the steering column member (12) for rotation about a longitudinal axis (26) of the steering column member. The support tube (24) and the steering column member (12) extend between clamping members (32, 34) and are axially movable relative to the clamping members. The clamping members (32, 34) clamp the support tube (24) to prevent movement of the support tube and the steering column member (12) relative to the clamping members. A pivot shaft (38) pivotally connects the clamping members (32, 34) to a mounting bracket (42). A locking mechanism (78) presses the clamping members (32, 34) toward each other to clamp the support tube (24) to prevent axial movement of the support tube relative to the clamping members. The locking mechanism (18) also locks the clamping members (32, 34) in one of a plurality of pivot positions relative to the mounting bracket (42). The locking mechanism (78) has a locking shaft (82) extending through the clamping members (32, 34) and through side walls (52, 54) of the mounting bracket (42).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.