Patent · US Active

Adaptive energy absorber for steering column

US7510213B2 · kind B2 · utility

4Cited by
14References
12Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateMay 9, 2006
Grant dateMar 31, 2009
Priority date
Expiry dateNov 18, 2026

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB62D1/195
  • WIPO fieldMechanical elements
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

The invention provides a steering column assembly for a vehicle. The steering column assembly includes a steering column operable to adjustably support a steering wheel in the vehicle. The steering column is moveable along a path for collapsing movement relative to a vehicle in response to an impact situation. The steering column assembly also includes an energy absorber for dissipating energy associated with the collapsing movement of the steering column along the path. The energy absorber includes an anvil fixedly disposed relative to one of the steering column and the path. The energy absorber also includes a strap drawable over the anvil and substantially fixedly disposed relative to the other of the steering column and the path. The steering column assembly also includes a second strap fixedly disposed relative to one of the steering column and the path for dissipating energy associated with the collapsing movement of the steering column along the path. The steering column assembly also includes at least one quick release bolt engaged with the strap to selectively release the strap relative to the other of the steering column and the path. The at least one quick release bolt e…

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