Rake and telescope column lock safety function
US7278660B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 7, 2004 |
| Grant date | Oct 9, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 31, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R21/33
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus has an adjustable steering column that moves between first and second positions along a path. The path defines tilting movement of at least a portion of the steering column, telescoping movement of at least a portion of the steering column, or both tilting and telescoping movement. The apparatus also includes a lock moveable between locked and unlocked positions. When the lock is in the locked position, the steering column can not move adjustably along the path. When the lock is in the unlocked position, the steering column can be adjusted along the path. The apparatus also includes a switch operable to emit an unlock signal, and a controller communicating with the switch to receive the unlock signal. The controller controls the lock to move to the unlocked position in response to the unlock signal. The apparatus also includes a signal generator operable to emit a second signal to the controller. The controller overrides the unlock signal and controls the lock to move to the locked position in response to the second signal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.