Machine element or mechanism – Control lever and linkage systems – Hand operated
Utility Patent
1998-12-14
2001-01-02
Bucci, David A. (Department: 3682)
Machine element or mechanism
Control lever and linkage systems
Hand operated
C280S775000, C403S109100, C403S104000
Utility Patent
active
06167777
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to tiltable steering column assemblies for automotive vehicles, and particularly to a lock mechanism for retaining the tilting component of the steering column in selected positions of adjustment.
DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR DEVELEOPMENTS
Vehicle steering columns are often provided with a tiltable component that enables the steering wheel to be set at varying degrees of tilt, according to the desires and needs of different persons that might have occasion to drive the vehicle. Typically a manually operable lock mechanism is provided for retaining the steering wheel component in selected positions of tilt adjustment.
Representative lock mechanisms for tiltable steering columns are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,282,394 to A. Dominique et al, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,463,626 to K. Kazaoka et al, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,222,410 to S. Kinoshita.
The present invention relates to a tiltable steering column lock mechanism having a modular construction, whereby the lock mechanism can be used on a range of different vehicles without extensive redesign of the steering column or lock mechanism.
The lock mechanism is designed to have high strength and ruggedness, while being relatively small and compact for ready installation in a range of different size vehicles. A special feature of the invention is the use of an elongated rod between the steering column components, in combination with a locking sleeve that encircles the rod to retain the rod in selected positions of adjustment. The rod and sleeve have mating teeth that are discontinuous in the circumferential plane, whereby the sleeve can be rotated around the rod axis to move the teeth into or out of mesh.
The sleeve grips the external surface of the rod, such that when the teeth are in mesh, the teeth are precluded from separation, even under high impact accident conditions when high forces might be imposed on the steering column components. Specific features of the invention will be apparent from the attached drawings and description of a particular embodiment of the invention.
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Bucci David A.
Chrysler Corporation
Hansen Colby
Shurupoff Lawrence J.
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