Steering column having an energy absorption assembly

US9669862B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• Steering Solutions IP Holding Corporation · US

Inventors

• Robert W. Dubay · Hackensack, US
• Matthew T. Vincent · Chesterfield, US
• Donald A. Buzzard · Saginaw, US
• Michael P. Anspaugh · Bay City, US
• Randy W. Jones · North Branch, US
• Roger A. Bourbina · Saginaw, US
• Robert D. Bueche · Montrose, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 18, 2016
• Grant date: Jun 6, 2017
• Expiry date: Feb 18, 2036

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B62D1/192
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A portion of a steering column assembly includes an energy absorption assembly. The energy absorption assembly includes an energy absorption strap and a breakaway member. The energy absorption strap has a first strap portion coupled to an upper jacket assembly and a second strap portion coupled to a lower jacket assembly. The breakaway member has a first breakaway member, a second breakaway member, and a frangible area. The first breakaway member defines a first opening that receives the first strap portion. The second breakaway member defines a second opening that receives the second strap portion. The frangible area joins the first breakaway member to the second breakaway member.