Machine element or mechanism – Control lever and linkage systems – Hand operated
Reexamination Certificate
2001-11-21
2003-12-16
Bucci, David A. (Department: 3682)
Machine element or mechanism
Control lever and linkage systems
Hand operated
C280S775000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06662674
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a steering column, and more specifically, to an adjustable steering column.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A known steering column is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,449,419. U.S. Pat. No. 4,449,419 discloses a steering column having a fixed bracket connectable to a vehicle. Upper and lower links are pivotally connected to the fixed bracket and to a barrel supporting a steering column member for rotation. A locking shaft extends through the bracket and the upper and lower links. The locking shaft extends through arcuate slots in the lower links and through slots in the upper link.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A steering column of the present invention includes a steering column member connectable with a steering wheel and rotatable to turn steerable vehicle wheels. A support, through which the steering column member extends, supports the steering column member for rotation about a longitudinal axis of the steering column member. A mounting bracket connects the steering column to a vehicle frame.
A pair of arms interconnect the support and the mounting bracket. Each of the arms has a first end pivotally connected with the mounting bracket to permit pivotal movement of the arms relative to the mounting bracket. Each of the arms has a second end pivotally connected with the support to permit pivotal movement of the support relative to the arms. A locking mechanism locks the arms in any one of a plurality of pivot positions relative to the mounting bracket and locks the support in any one of a plurality of pivot positions relative to the arms. The locking mechanism includes a locking shaft extending through the mounting bracket, one of the arms, and into the support. The locking shaft extends through the one arm at a location between the first and second ends.
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patent: 6357317 (2002-03-01), Livengood et al.
patent: 2002/0020245 (2002-02-01), Gaukel
Cartwright Mark A.
Lewis Jonathan
Livengood Gregory B.
Bucci David A.
Tarolli, Sundheim Covell & Tummino L.L.P.
TRW Inc.
Van Pelt Bradley J.
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