Collapsible steering column assembly

US8123251B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Steering Solutions IP Holding Corporation · US

Inventors

• Leland N. Olgren · Frankenmuth, US
• Michael S. Gregus · Saginaw, US
• Donald A. Niedzielski · Bay City, US
• Roger A. Bourbina · Saginaw, US
• Jeff GREGG · San Jose, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 17, 2009
• Grant date: Feb 28, 2012
• Expiry date: Dec 17, 2029

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B62D1/184
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

An adjustable steering column assembly for a vehicle preferably has a bracket for rigid attachment to the vehicle with a first slot defining a longitudinal adjustment path of the assembly. A steering shaft is journaled to a jacket of the assembly for rotation about an axis. A shuttle attaches rigidly to the jacket and adjustably to the bracket for telescoping and tilt adjustment of the assembly. The shuttle has a second slot that defines a collapse path with said second slot preferably having a first portion restraining said steering shaft in a normal state and a second portion that allows said steering shaft to move through said collapse path when in a collapsed state. A pin extends through said first and second slots for coupling said shuttle to said bracket.