Machine element or mechanism – Control lever and linkage systems – Hand operated
Patent
1989-09-22
1990-08-28
Herrmann, Allan D.
Machine element or mechanism
Control lever and linkage systems
Hand operated
188371, 280777, B62D 119
Patent
active
049515225
ABSTRACT:
A support (26) for mounting an energy absorbing steering column is disclosed as including a metal strap (30) that extends transversely with respect to the steering axis A and has a central portion (32) that mounts the steering column as well as having opposite ends (38) each of which includes a mounting portion (40) for mounting on the vehicle. The strap includes a pair of U-shaped portions (42) located between the central portion (32) and the opposite ends (38) thereof with the open end of each U-shaped portion (42) opening in the same direction as each other along the steering axis. Movement of the steering column along the steering axis deforms the strap to straighten the U-shaped portions (42) and absorb energy. Clamping connections (44) mount the mounting portions (40) of the strap (30) on opposite sides of the U-shaped portions such that pivoting of the mounting portions cooperates with straightening of the U-shaped portions to increase the steering column movement that absorbs energy. Different embodiments of the strap have the U-shaped portions opening either opposite to or in the same direction as the energy absorbing movement of the steering column. Openings (50) of another embodiment and grooves (52) of a further embodiment control the energy absorption characteristics during the steering column movement.
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Chowdhury Dipak R.
Mark James A.
Ford Motor Company
Herrmann Allan D.
Kushman James A.
Stock Daniel M.
Zerschling Keith L.
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