Flexible mount for an intermediate steering column

Details Flexible mount for an intermediate steering column Flexible mount for an intermediate steering column

1999-12-22

2001-08-28

Dickson, Paul N. (Department: 3618)

Land vehicles

Wheeled

Running gear

C280S777000, C280S780000, C074S492000

Reexamination Certificate

active

06279953

ABSTRACT:

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to mounting an intermediate steering column in a vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
An intermediate steering column is connected with an upper steering column, which is connected with a steering wheel, and a steering mechanism. Upon rotation of the steering wheel, the intermediate steering column rotates to actuate the steering mechanism. The steering mechanism turns steerable wheels of a vehicle when actuated.
The intermediate steering column includes first and second column members which are axially movable relative to each other. The first column member is connected with the steering mechanism to actuate the steering mechanism upon rotation of the first column member. The second column member is connected with the upper steering column. The first and second column members move axially relative to each other upon movement of the vehicle steering mechanism from a normal position.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is an apparatus including a vehicle steering mechanism which, when actuated, turns steerable wheels of a vehicle. The vehicle steering mechanism is mounted for limited movement in opposite directions from a normal position. An intermediate steering column includes first and second column members which are axially movable relative to each other. The first and second column members are rotatable together about a common axis.
The first column member is connected with the steering mechanism to actuate the steering mechanism upon rotation of the first column member. The first and second column members move axially relative to each other upon movement of the vehicle steering mechanism from the normal position. A flexible mount for the second column member elastically deforms in the event the steering mechanism moves from the normal position and the first and second column members fail to move axially relative to each other.


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