Patent · US Expired

Energy absorption system for a steering column bracket

US7172217B2 · kind B2 · utility

0Cited by
29References
8Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJan 30, 2004
Grant dateFeb 6, 2007
Priority date
Expiry dateApr 3, 2025

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
  • CPC primaryF16F7/128
  • WIPO fieldMechanical elements
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

An energy absorption device for use in a steering column assembly in a motor vehicle includes a steering column bracket having a groove formed therein. A sheet strap is mounted on the groove in a hooked configuration and has a first end and a second end. An insert is mounted on the first end of the sheet strap. A pop rivet is mounted to the steering column bracket and extends across the groove to prevent the insert from moving. A pin is mounted on the second end of the sheet strap opposite the first end. The pin is adapted to be coupled to a fixed portion of the motor vehicle. The sheet strap unwinds during an impact event thereby absorbing energy.

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