Machine element or mechanism – Control lever and linkage systems – Hand operated
Reexamination Certificate
1999-04-08
2001-05-01
Bucci, David A. (Department: 3682)
Machine element or mechanism
Control lever and linkage systems
Hand operated
C280S775000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06223620
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A tilt steering column allows an operator of a vehicle to adjust the height and angle of the steering wheel depending on the operator's stature, seat position and comfort. Typically, the steering wheel can be moved to an uppermost position to allow the operator or driver to get in and out of the driver's seat more easily.
A locking mechanism is provided for retaining the steering column in an adjusted position. The locking mechanism must be released to adjust the steering column. Typically, the locking mechanism is released by actuation of a lever by a hand of the driver. Usually this involves a rearward movement of the lever by the left hand. Actuation of the lever is not particularly difficult, but repeated actuation can place a strain on the wrist. A tilt release system is needed which improves ergonomics and minimizes the possibility of wrist strain.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with the present invention, the locking mechanism is released by movement of a lever by a finger of a hand of the driver. A reaction surface is provided adjacent to the lever against which a thumb of the driver may be placed while operating this lever. In this manner, a pinching action is carried out in order to effect release of the locking mechanism, without straining any part of the hand or wrist of the driver.
Preferably, the reaction surface is a recess in a wall of the shroud of the steering column. This recess may be in the rear wall of the shroud adjacent the left side wall thereof. In the preferred embodiment, the lever rotates about a pivot axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the steering column, and moves from a forward retracted position to a rearward actuating position.
One object of this invention is to provide a tilt release system for the locking mechanism of a steering column having the foregoing features and capabilities.
Another object is to provide a tilt release system for a steering column which is rugged and durable in use, of simple design and easy to operate.
These and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent as the following description proceeds, especially when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings.
REFERENCES:
patent: 3857454 (1974-12-01), Kobayashi
patent: 4400012 (1983-08-01), Otsuka
patent: 4495833 (1985-01-01), Fourrey et al.
patent: 4527444 (1985-07-01), McKee et al.
patent: 4660673 (1987-04-01), Yoshii
patent: 5188392 (1993-02-01), Sugiki et al.
patent: 5718471 (1998-02-01), McHorse
patent: 5802924 (1998-09-01), Johnson et al.
patent: 2 331 632 (1974-01-01), None
patent: 57-58557 (1982-04-01), None
Bucci David A.
DaimlerChrysler Corporation
Joyce William C
Shurupoff Lawrence J.
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