Method of manufacturing a steering column
US8096036B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 29, 2007 |
| Grant date | Jan 17, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 16, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/53439
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of manufacturing a steering column assembly having a first jacket and a second jacket with a bushing between the first and second jackets. The method utilizes a manufacturing machine having a loadable member, a fixed member, and a thermal fixture. The method comprises the steps of: assembling the first jacket to the second jacket with the bushing located radially between the first and second jackets to interlock the first and second jackets and prevent axial movement between the first and second jackets; connecting the first jacket to the loadable member of the manufacturing machine; connecting the second jacket to a fixed member of the manufacturing machine; loading the loadable member to apply an axial force to the first jacket; heating the thermal fixture of the manufacturing machine; and melting the bushing until the first jacket moves axially relative to the second jacket.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.